Sam was doing much better by evening. He managed to eat a full dinner, and Grandma, who'd spent all day at the hospital, was worn out from worry. She went to bed right after dinner.

James was in the kids' room reading to Sam when his phone rang. He glanced at it.

"Keep reading, buddy. Daddy's gotta take this."

Sam went back to his book while James stepped onto the balcony. The second he left, Sam sneaked out his smartwatch and texted ...