The last time I was this worried was the night I got arrested. I’d do anything to protect my sister, and I feel the same about Everleigh. She didn’t deserve this, and I hope to God that I’m not the cause of it, but I could be. Lexie’s words have been playing on repeat along with what that crazed woman said that night—what do you have that I don’t?

Yesterday, while Everleigh was resting, I went home and installed motion-activated security cameras around the house. Each corner has one along with a brand-new doorbell cam.

I don’t know what else that woman is planning, but I’m not willing to take any more chances.

“You’d think they would’ve already brought the discharge papers so I can leave.” Everleigh groans as she flips through TV channels. She’s growing impatient and has been since the doctor said she’d be released today.

“I know,” Tyler agrees. “Are you sure you don’t need me to take you home?”

“No. My car is more comfortable. Archer can drive it,” she tells him with a smirk.

“Okay, okay,” he says. When Tyler heard Everleigh would get to leave today, he left work and came up here. He’s offered her tons of support while she’s been in the hospital and even kept her company while I went home yesterday.

“The next time I’m at a hospital, it better be because Gemma is giving me another niece or nephew,” she says matter-of-factly.

Tyler shakes his head. “I’m trying! Trust me! Gotta let my little fellas do their job.”

Everleigh pretends to throw up in her mouth. “Please don’t talk about your little…nope, no. Just make it happen. Without the details, please.”

I chuckle, loving their dynamic. While Tyler is a protective hard-ass most of the time, it’s also obvious he cares about his sister. After this scare, we’ve all grown closer.

A food service worker enters the room with a tray of food for Everleigh.

Everleigh looks down at her lunch. “I’m supposed to be leaving.”

“You were on my drop-off list, so I’m sure they’re still working on getting the sign-offs. As soon as they’ve got it all taken care of, they’ll let you know,” he explains before walking out.

Everleigh looks down at the chicken that’s white as paper. Next to it is a green mush that I’m sure is overcooked broccoli and another side of what I assume is mashed potatoes. “And I just lost my appetite. Either of you want this?”

“Nope,” I blurt out. “Looks worse than what we were served in prison. I’ve had enough gross food to last me a lifetime.”