Evan tried not to get bent out of shape about Liv having dinner with him. She was trying to help. So was Noah, Evan supposed. Though Noah’s altruism always tended to benefit himself. Granted, he’d been a strong advocate for Danny. But doing so had elevated his political stature and brought him heartthrob status. And it distracted from the fact that it was his son who’d thrown the party that night. At Noah’s house, no less.

Before Danny’s arrest, Evan had never been jealous of Noah Brawn. He thought Liv saw Noah for who he really was: a glad-handing politician. But Evan and Liv had drifted apart before Evan had even realized it, and Noah was undeniably handsome and charismatic. And if Evan were being honest, he had let himself go. Now Evan couldn’t help but envy the man. He wanted to call Liv back and say, Hell no, you’re not going. Something in Liv’s voice said that she hoped he’d tell her not to go. That she wanted him to fight for her. Put her above everything else, even the hope of a pardon. It was one of those moments where he realized how much he’d failed her.

He picked up his cell. Do it. Call her.

But then he heard the jangle of keys at the door and Maggie strolled into the kitchen. She seemed excited, a sparkle in her eyes.

“Hey, Magpie. You just missed Mom’s call.”

“How’s Grandpa?” Maggie asked.

“He’s still having trouble, but at least they’ll let him stay at the home.”

“Did you tell her about the trip?”

“No, but apparently someone did.”

Maggie’s face reddened and she gave a timid smile. “I didn’t tell her. I just mentioned that she might want to talk to you about Mexico. What’d she say?”

“Not much. I didn’t get into it. Said it was a surprise. Don’t worry, it will be fine.”

“Will it, Dad?” Maggie took a stool next to her father at the kitchen counter.

“Will it what?”

“Be fine. I mean, it’s kind of crazy.”

Evan grinned. “I’ve got to live up to my reputation.”

Maggie didn’t laugh. The documentary’s portrayal of Evan as unhinged was a sore spot for his daughter.