Chapter Twenty-Three: The Water Never Lies
Before Violet could say another word, Maxx walked in.
There was something different in his face tonight. A seriousness that didn't match his usual charm.
"Don't," he said gently, eyes meeting Violet's. "Don't say another word about Simon."
Violet raised an eyebrow. "You've been eavesdropping?"
Maxx gave a half-smile, but it didn't reach his eyes. "No. I just know how you talk when you're about to drop fire on someone's name."
"I wasn't going to lie."
"I didn't say you would." Maxx stepped closer. "But maybe Isabelle deserves to figure out who Simon is… on her own. Not through your words. Or mine."
Violet turned to him fully. "You really still defend him?"
Maxx's jaw tightened. "I don't defend what he did. But he's not okay, Vi. And he hasn't been for a long time."
The energy in the room felt heavy, like a storm waiting to break.
