I love live music and I really, really love Red Rocks. I’m not a religious person, but if I was, Red Rocks Amphitheatre would be my church. It’s one of my favorite places on the planet, and most of the time, I would jump at this offer with zero hesitation. But hearing that Dad is the person providing the tickets causes a pause. A major one. If there’s one location I can’t have tainted by Andrew Young, it’s Red Rocks. The last thing I need is to pull up to Yoga on the Rocks—Red Rocks’ alter ego during the day—seething as I remember whatever douchebag move he inevitably pulled in my presence.

But I guess it doesn’t matter since I already have plans.

“I really wish I could, but I have an event at work that I have to be there for.” Only a few hours ago, I never thought I would’ve said this, but thank the freaking lord for the Dirty Birds.

“Bummer.” Daisy sticks her bottom lip out much like Elsie’s toddler when he’s forced to take a bath.

“I know, I wish I could make it. You’re going to have so much fun.” I think about leaving it there, letting myself live in blissful ignorance, but I need to know. “Is Dad going to go with you?”

“God no!” She throws her head back and laughs while I let out a breath I didn’t realize I was holding. “He came down with Mom to help me move into my apartment but didn’t even spend the night. I was surprised he came at all, you know he hates leaving his mountain retreat.”

“Yeah, you’re right about that.” Unfortunately, thanks to years of him missing every milestone in my life, I do know that.

However, ever since Gran died and he was more upset about losing the Book Nook than losing his mother, he’s made more exceptions in order to make his way to my part of the state. Between stressing about my new title of bookstore owner and his unpredictable appearances, I’m a ball of anxiety. At least I can relax a little knowing he’s not here right this moment.

“But speaking of work . . .” Daisy lets her sentence trail off and my anxiety picks back up. “You mean the Book Nook, right? Gran always told stories about the store when she came to visit.”

“Yup, the Book Nook.” I nod, afraid to say anything more because I have no idea where she’s going with this.