Nick and I stare at each other across the hallway.
“We’ll use Alexander’s bond,” I say before Nick can speak.
Dr. Harrison’s expression shifts to concern. “Ms. Winters, I need to be very clear about the risks—”
“I understand the risks. Alexander will bond with her.”
“Emily—” Nick starts.
“No.” I cut him off. “This is my decision. She’s my daughter and I’m choosing what’s best for her.”
“What’s best for her is the bond with the highest success rate,” Nick’s voice is strained. “Which is mine.”
“What’s best for her is stability,” I counter. “Alexander has been in our lives for a year. You just found out she exists twenty minutes ago. She doesn’t know you. She doesn’t trust you.”
“She doesn’t have to trust me for the bond to work.”
“But she has to live with the consequences of it.” I
