Chapter 28 Summary: Koi Daddy

⚠️ Spoiler Warning: This guide contains detailed spoilers for the entire novel. Proceed only if you've finished reading or are comfortable knowing the plot.

Summary

Gage, Levi, and Cam install a koi pond in Gage's backyard. Gage admits his growing feelings for Zoey are making him reconsider his traditional life goals (marriage, kids) in favor of more time with her. The brothers discuss Audrey's uneasy move-out and the upcoming trial for Valerie, the woman who killed their brother Miller. Gage reflects on his family bonds and his role as a stabilizing presence. His nephews Wes and Harry arrive, teasing Gage about being a "hot koi daddy" and offering dating advice. Gage receives a text from Zoey about a leaking sink, prompting him to leave for a spontaneous visit.

Key Events

Gage, Levi, and Cam complete the backyard koi pond that Gage initially didn’t want.
Gage confesses to his brothers that sex with Zoey has made him question his desire for a traditional wife and children.
Levi reports helping Audrey move her ex Gerald out, noting holes in drywall and a bad feeling about Gerald.
Cam and Levi press Gage about his case defending Valerie, and Gage explains he sees her as a human being who also lost something.
The brothers discuss their lackluster Mother's Day habits (flowers) and are criticized by Wes and Harry.
Gage’s nephews give him dating advice for Zoey, calling him a "hot koi daddy."
Gage receives a text from Zoey about a sink leak and leaves for a date.

Character Development

Gage Bishop: Experiences a significant internal shift, openly admitting that his feelings for Zoey are challenging his long-held vision for a stable, predictable life. He also shows emotional growth by articulating why he can defend Valerie (recognizing her humanity) and by reflecting on his family's unique roles.
Levi Bishop: Demonstrates protective instincts toward Audrey, observing disturbing signs in her ex. His role as the quiet, observant brother who taught his nephews about consent is highlighted.
Cam Bishop: Provides blunt, brotherly commentary on relationships and reinforces the family's deep loyalty, especially regarding the death of Miller.
Wes and Harry (nephews): Offer a younger generation's perspective on romance, calling out the brothers' superficial Mother's Day gestures and pushing Gage to be more proactive with Zoey.
Zoey Moody: Although absent, her influence is felt through Gage's constant thoughts and the text that propels him into action at the chapter's end.

Themes, Symbols, or Motifs

The Koi Pond: Symbolizes new beginnings, rescue, and nurturing something delicate. The pond (which Gage resisted) becomes a gathering place for family and a catalyst for self-reflection.
Family as Support System: The brothers show up without being asked, work together, and openly challenge each other. The family’s collective approach to love—sacrificing comfort for those they care about—is a central motif.
Stability vs. Spontaneity: Gage's internal conflict between his planned life (marriage, kids, security) and the chaotic, exhilarating pull of Zoey embodies this theme. The chapter ends with him choosing spontaneity.
Restorative Justice: Gage's defense of Valerie, despite her involvement in his brother's death, introduces the concept of seeing people beyond their worst actions. He now balances loss with mercy.

Why This Chapter Matters

Chapter 28 marks a turning point for Gage. He moves from passive longing to active pursuit of Zoey, spurred by family encouragement and his own shifting priorities. The koi pond—a concrete, silly project done for his mother—becomes a backdrop for serious conversations about love, loss, and loyalty. His confession that he'd rather have great sex with Zoey than find the future Mrs. Bishop is the clearest sign yet that his life plan is being rewritten. The chapter also deepens the subplots of Audrey's safety and Valerie's trial, grounding the romance in real-world stakes.

Study Questions and Answers

1. How does Gage's attitude toward his life goals change in this chapter?
Gage admits that his intense attraction to Zoey makes his long-held desire for a traditional marriage and children seem less interesting. He now prioritizes enjoying his time with her over following his pre-planned path.

2. What disturbing clues does Levi uncover about Audrey's ex-husband Gerald?
Levi found holes in the drywall at Gerald's height and smelled booze on him. Gerald became compliant only when he saw Levi, suggesting a pattern of anger that Audrey downplays.

3. Why do Wes and Harry criticize their uncles' approach to Mother's Day, and what does this reveal about family dynamics?
They point out that the uncles only buy flowers, while the boys themselves plan a full day of activities and personal gifts. This reveals that the younger generation holds the brothers to a higher standard of thoughtfulness, pushing them to be more emotionally present.