"Ethan!" Maxell's mouth dropped when Axel exited out of the castle main door. "What the hell happened to you?"
"Axel the bastard struck me in the nose. Claims he was defending Lolita!"
"That's absurd. Is Lolita here?" Maxwell asked, raising an eyebrow.
"No." Ethan shook his head. "Her pink convertible isn't here. She left to go shopping, as if she needed another dress." Ethan rolled his eyes.
"You should move out," Maxwell said, pressing his lips together. "Come stay with me."
Ethan frowned. "Why would I do that?"
"Because I'm concerned about your safety. Living with Lolita isn't safe."
Ethan scoffed. "What, you think she's plotting to steal the throne?"
Maxwell's gaze darkened. "She's ruthless enough."
"Maxwell," Ethan said, voice steady. "Lolita's too sweet to be a real threat to me. Sure, she gets on my nerves. But murder? Come on."
Ethan turned toward the castle entrance. "Come inside. Let's play another round of pool."
Maxwell hesitated, his eyes lingering on the bloodstain beneath Ethan's nose. He nodded and followed Ethan into the marble halls, wondering if this would be their last game together.