Chapter 36 - Malia (1)

My hackles rise as I spot the men outside my mother's room. They earn cautious glances from staff and patients within the vicinity. Unlike the De Lucas' security who mostly wear black suits, these guys are rough looking—in jeans, jackets, some fatigue, and combat boots. I know without a doubt that my father has arrived, and it causes my heart to race.

I hesitantly walk over with careful steps, but before I can even reach the men, they straighten, giving me ugly scowls. One of them roughly tells me, "Step back, Miss."

"That's my mother's room. Let me in," I say with a confidence that I don't have.

"No one is allowed inside."