She said if Dad had to choose between you and me in front of his friends, he’d have to take my side and order you out.”

“She used you to back him into a corner,” I said.

“I’m sorry I screamed that you pushed me,” Ava said, her voice dropping to a low whisper.

“I’m sorry I made everyone look at you like that.”

“Thank you for telling me the truth now, Ava,” I said.

“It doesn’t undo the damage, and it doesn’t change what has to happen between your father and me, but it matters that you said it.”

Ava looked over at Daniel, who stayed in his chair with his eyes locked on the table.