Diana was acutely aware of how to hurt and annoy him, a strategy that seemed to bring her a strange sense of satisfaction.

Max shifted his gaze away from Diana, his thoughts tangled in the web of hurt and resentment.

Diana's soothing voice cut through the tense atmosphere, a deceptive calmness masking the storm that brewed beneath the surface.

 "You should now get some rest," she advised, her words carrying a hint of concern.

"Call her right now," Max urged, his tone ...