Chapter 7: Order
The emergency protective order was granted the following afternoon.
It barred Nicholas, Patricia, and Gregory from any contact with Abigail—direct, indirect, or through third parties. It covered the hospital, any temporary residence, and a defined distance from both. Violations would be immediate and enforceable. The Fergusons received formal notice through counsel. Patricia’s attempt to reach me by phone was declined and logged.
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Abigail was cleared for discharge once the swelling had been reassessed and pain managed. I did not take her to any location the Fergusons knew. A short-term apartment arranged through a trusted contact became the first secure stop. The address was not shared. Hospital security and the responding officers were given the necessary information for continuity; no one else was.
I signed the leave paperwork that kept me available without requiring explanation beyond emergency family need. The uniform stayed hanging in the temporary closet. The work of the next days would not need ribbons to be effective.
