Chapter 10

Max slumped against the vehicle, massaging his forehead. He'd just messaged her that he'd be occupied and unable to come back that day. She read it but didn't respond, which he didn't find unusual.

The recent days had been draining. Violet was becoming increasingly needy, clinging to him excessively. Her constant chatter and need for affirmation were overwhelming.

Earlier, he'd grown so irritated that he told Violet they'd have to postpone their lunch. This seemed to satisfy her momentarily, allowing him to return home briefly, but he knew it was temporary. Violet rarely let him out of her sight for extended periods.

She acted as if she had a right to every aspect of his life, and Max was growing weary of it.