“I would have helped with Brodie.” The words shot out of his mouth before he could stop them.

Shayla shifted in her seat to face him. “You accused my father and brother of being criminals, remember?”

Mike couldn’t deny it.

More miles passed before he spoke again. “I want to be a part of Brodie’s life.”

Shayla let out a harsh laugh. “I’m sure you do. However, has it occurred to you that the two people you’re accusing of being criminals are Brodie’s uncle and grandfather?”

A hard lump formed in the back of his throat, making it impossible to speak. She was right—he hadn’t considered that fact, yet he couldn’t let go of what he knew in his heart was true. Duncan and Ian were involved in his father’s murder and needed to be brought to justice.

No matter the consequences? His resolve wavered. He couldn’t lose his son.

“Yeah, that’s what I thought,” Shayla said in a weary tone.

He knew he needed to tread lightly. Alienating Shayla wouldn’t help his goal of being involved in Brodie’s life.