Maximus POV
This has to be the worst family dinner of my life. The tension in the dining room hangs so heavy, it feels like it could be sliced clean through with a knife.
Mother is trying—really trying—to keep the conversation alive. Her voice is too bright and too forced. But Father? He’s furious. It’s written all over him, not that I care.
“Do you need anything, Father?” I mutter, glancing his way. “I’m not staying the night. I’ve got a family to get back to, and it’s getting late. You know I hate driving after dark.”
He doesn’t even pretend to hide his displeasure. His scowl carves deep lines into his face, and I catch the low rumble of a growl under his breath. He doesn’t want me here. That much is obvious.
He ignores me, and then proceeds to focus on his plate as if I never s
