Max nodded fervently, feeling the weight of his father's mission and Ethan's trust. "Understood. A definitive blow. I'll talk to Dad; I'll tell him the deal is closed under those terms. He'll understand the strategy, I'm sure."
"Good," Ethan said. He pulled a folded piece of paper from his pocket. "This is the number for my lawyer, Davies. Call him and tell him you need him immediately. Explain that you have sensitive information that can change the course of my case, but don't reveal Thompson's name. Tell him to prepare. And Max..."
"Yes?"
"Hailey," Ethan said, his voice softening for the first time. "Tell her I'm fine. That I'm 'solving some quantum physics problem,' whatever works. I don't want her to worry too much."
"Of course, I will," Max replied, a genuine smile returning. "She's been driving me crazy. Only I know you're here; Dad didn't tell anyone. Don't worry, I won't spread it. I promise nothing more than the message for Davies will leave my mouth."
