You were aware of the strained relationship between Max and her stepbrother, but the thought of her abused scared you.

Upstairs in the Wheeler house, the rest of the group gathered while you found yourself in the basement with Max. She entered with a determined stride, settling at a desk with her back turned to you. Dismissing her demeanor, your attention was drawn to a broken skateboard in her backpack.

Max: “I can feel you staring, you know.”

She mumbles, still loud enough for you to hear.