Chapter 12

Maxwell POV

A few long minutes later, the door cracks open, and Laura emerges. Ava smiles at her softly. “Hi, how are you feeling? You must be so thirsty.” Do you need a glass of water to quench your thirty?

My gaze focuses on her as she stares at the bottle. Her thoughts are loud and clear in my head, it almost makes me lose my balance. She’s skeptical of what’s inside. And I don't know if her next move is going to be good or bad.

“It’s not drugged,” I offer, swiping the bottle out of Ava’s hands and taking a generous swig. “See?”

Those big brown eyes study me for a moment before her shaky hand reaches out. I extend my arm to pass it quickly. “Have it,” I say with a soft smile.

Her nimble fingers latch onto the bottle before lifting it to her lips. She takes two big gulps before closing her eyes, droplets rolling down her chin.

“Do you want something to eat?” Ava asks.

She doesn’t answer straight away; instead, she lowers the bottle and glances down at her stomach. Her hands grip the