Lopez arrived at the hospital and found Samantha waiting in the lobby, her eyes red and swollen from crying.
Without saying a word, Lopez rushed over and pulled her into a tight hug.
"Samantha," she murmured, her voice thick with emotion. "I'm so sorry I wasn't here sooner."
Samantha shook her head, tears spilling down her cheeks.
"I was scared," she whispered. "I'm just glad you're here now."
Lopez nodded, fighting back her own tears.
"Where's Mom?"
Sam pointed through the glass window toward their mother, who lay motionless on the hospital bed.
Lopez nodded again.
"Stay here. I'll speak to the doctor."
She didn't wait for a reply before...