“It sounds like you did. And that’s not all. Daddy called that reporter and threatened to sue her and the paper she works for if they reported any false information regarding your medical history or Mathias’s accident. He told her if she wanted a story, it should be on the stigma society has placed on those with behavioral and mental health issues. That, as a country, we should be ashamed that so many people are forced to suffer in silence because they are afraid of being ostracized if they ask for help.”

Movement at the nurse’s station caught Lane’s attention. Her gaze found her father’s. Even from a distance, Lane could see the emotion warring over his features. “He did that?”

Meagan nodded.

It took Lane several heartbeats before she could meet her father’s eyes again. Her mother looped her arm through his and they stood back as though waiting for permission to approach her. Lane’s lips trembled into a small smile. At this her parents charged forward and embraced her in a hug that seemed to say everything all at once.

Charlie returned with Noah holding a rubber glove blown up to look like a turkey. “Visiting hours will be over soon. If you want to see Miguel, we should go now.”

Lane hugged her parents one more time before they left. Tears had ruined her mother’s makeup and her father tried for nonchalance as he wiped a hand to his cheek. They had a lot of healing to do, but this was a start—an emotional one that needed to happen.

Meagan wiped the remnants of her tears from her face. “You’re sure you’re okay?”

“I promise I look worse than I feel.”

Meagan looked up at Charlie like she was trying to confirm Lane’s answer.

He tucked a loose strand of her hair behind her ear before running the back of his knuckles over her cheek. His eyes trailed to her lips. “She’s been checked out.”

Lane’s heart soared within her chest. Would she ever get used to his touch or the way a simple look could melt her insides into mush? She hoped not.

“Okay. Please tell Miguel thank you. Your newest nephew or niece needs their auntie.”

“What?” Lane’s attention was pulled back to her sister. She saw a twinkle in Meagan’s eyes. “Are you? You’re pregnant?”

“Mm-hmm.” Meagan placed a hand on her belly. “I don’t need a special diet or extra exercise. I need you, sis. To help me through it.”

Lane hugged her sister as tears stung her eyes. “I promise I’ll be here for you. Whatever you need. Even if it’s locking ourselves in a room full of chocolate.”

“Sounds perfect.” Meagan giggled. She kissed Lane’s cheek. “Now, go see your friend.”