Michaela was blinking at him. “Unfortunately, that makes sense. But if I don’t fix this, what do I do now?”

“Nothing. Let him make the next move.”

“So I just wait and worry?”

“No. You do the opposite. You don’t worry, and you certainly don’t wait around for him. Don’t you have a few friends you could have a good time with?”

“The Mason Fire Department?”

Miguel smiled, glad she was lightening up. “Maybe a little less dramatic than that. What does he like most about you? And remember that I’m your father, so PG only.”

“Vera.”

“What about her?”

“He introduces me as Vera Exton’s daughter. His father is a big fan of hers.”

“Really?” Miguel’s tone told what he thought of that.

“It’s not like that. I’ve always had to live in the shadow of her spotlight.”

“And you’ve never paid any attention to it.” Miguel stood up. “I’m supposed to meet your mother at the fairgrounds. Want to join us?”

“Yes. Maybe if I send Hayes some photos of us, he’ll—”

“Come running?” Miguel’s jaw was clenched.

“You’re angry! About what?”

“I think my daughter is worth more than just who gave birth to her.”

“He doesn’t mean anything bad,” Mike said. “Lots of people want to meet her. I can’t blame Hayes for wanting to.”

Miguel put his arm around his daughter’s shoulders and started toward the front door. “Let’s go get something to eat. But do not tell your mother that your boyfriend is desperate to meet her. And it’s better that you don’t tell her about the archery battle. And say nothing about Kyle’s prank.”

“Can I talk about the weather or will that be too controversial for my mother’s delicate, fragile sensibilities?”

He opened the door. “All right. Do what you want. Feel free to tell her all.”

Mike let out her breath. “No, thanks. No archery and nothing about Kyle’s low-down, dirty trick.” She looked at Miguel. “Would it be all right if I put itching powder in his tux tomorrow?”

“Hmm.” Miguel seemed to consider it. “As funny as that would be and well deserved, you’d better not. But I agree that he should be punished.”

“What would be appropriate for destroying my entire life?”

“Tell him it had no effect on you whatever. That should do it.”

Mike smiled at that. “Good idea.”

Miguel walked her to her Jeep, opened the door for her, then went around to the driver’s seat. There was no need to take two vehicles, especially since he really wanted to meet this Hayes character.

When they arrived at the gate, everyone gathered to say hello to Miguel and tell him they were glad he was home.