275

MAXINE

As I turned to leave, Varis called my name. I paused and turned back to look at him, trying to mask the anxiety I felt. The look on his face was unreadable.

“Maxine,” he began, “I just have one question: are you truly in love with Ronan?”

The question caught me off guard so, I gave him a small smile. “No,” I said even though my heart raced. “It’s all part of an act.”

As I said that, I knew it was a complete lie. But they couldn't know that. Kris crossed his arms over his chest. His brows were furrowed. “You’re a damn good actress, then,” he said. “But why not tell Liam the truth? He deserves to know what you’re doing that you’re on his side.”

My breath caught in my throat for a moment. I felt the guilt deep in my chest. Liam... “No,” I replied, shaking my head. “He doesn't have to know. He’s better off hating me. It’s easier this way.”

Varis frowned, not getting it. “Easier? For who, you? It would be easier to have Liam’s trust.”

I sighed, rubbing the back of my neck, searching