Maximus POV
Jess fidgets endlessly in her chair, like she’s done something unforgivable. Her legs keep knocking against mine with each bump testing my patience.
At first, I thought she’s trying to flirt, and Iwas ready to tell her off, but then I caught her biting her nails. She’s not trying to be coy—she’s just anxious. Nervous and scared, like a trapped animal.
I don’t care enough to figure out what’s eating at her. For all I know, this could be another one of her acts. Jess has a talent for deception, a knack for weaving lies so convincing you’d swear they were real. Whatever she’s hiding, it’s big—I can feel it.
And then there’s the dinner invitation from my parents. The timing couldn’t be worse. I don’t know why they’ve decided to host now, but one thing is clear: I’m not l
