The discharge papers feel heavy in my hands, each page a barrier being dismantled between Tink and the outside world. Four days of negotiations with hospital administration, ethical committees, and social services have led to this moment—Tink leaving the sterile safety of the hospital for Cole and Juan's pack house. The claiming bond throbs beneath my skin like a second heartbeat, both urging me to stop this transfer and compelling me to follow wherever she goes.

"These are her ...