"You're the one she'll push hardest. You're the public face of the next generation. If she can get you to contradict the family line, she will."
"I understand."
"Do you?" He studies me. "You've seemed distracted lately."
"I'm fine."
The conversation shifts to press releases and talking points. I participate when required, but my mind keeps drifting.
I'm thinking about Jamie at the cabin, sayingyou defend yourself by proving I'm wrong, not by character assassination. I'm thinking about Congressman Hartley.
The meeting wraps up around nine. My mother leaves first. Warren heads out with his phone already at his ear.
I'm gathering my jacket when my father stops me.
"Carter. A moment."
I turn. His posture has changed. Less commanding, more deliberate.
"Close the door."
I do.
"Sit down."
I sit.
He doesn't speak immediately. He swirls his whiskey, stares into it.
"I need to tell you something," he says finally. "And I need you to keep it completely confidential. Not your mother. Not Kate. Not Warren. No one."
"Okay."
"I mean it, Carter. No one."
"I understand."
He sets down his glass. "I think I've identified the source. The person who gave Dean his documents."
My pulse quickens. "Who?"
"I'm not ready to say. Not until I'm certain." He holds up a hand. "I know that's frustrating. But I've been wrong before, and I won't make accusations without proof. I'm close, though. Very close."
"And when you're certain?"
"I'll deal with it and I’ll need your support."
“Of course.”
He nods slowly, watching me. "Get some rest. Thursday's important."
"I know."
At the door, he speaks again.
"Carter. Whatever's been distracting you, set it aside. This family has survived worse than this. We'll survive this too. But only if we stick together."
"I understand."
