“I haven’t responded to him in case you were wondering,” my dad said, clearly trying to console me.

Well, that was good, at least. If my dad had told Ace I was upstairs alone instead of watching a movie with my family, Ace would have been even more furious than he already was.

“Thank you,” I replied meekly. “I’m sorry he’s blowing up your phone. I don’t know what his problem is.”

My dad nodded softly. “I think I might have an idea.” He leaned forward, placing his elbows on his knees. “Is there a reason you’re not responding to him?”

I shrugged my shoulders. “I don’t know. Just don’t...