Maximus couldn't help but feel a sense of unease as he listened to her statement, his intuition picking up on the subtle undertones of manipulation. It was as if she was attempting to push him beyond the limits of what any reasonable person could comprehend. With a mixture of disappointment and frustration, he let out a rasping sigh, the sound conveying his helplessness and the weight of the situation. As the air escaped his lips, he couldn't hide the deep-seated turmoil within him. He knew all too well that he wasn't alright, despite his attempts to put on a brave face. His pale complexion illuminated the internal struggle he was going through, rendering every line on his face more pronounced. "Okay," he finally uttered, his voice carrying a sense of resignation and acceptance of the ci

