276

RONAN

I went to Maxine's room early the next morning, just as she was coming out of the shower. I watched Maxine as she sat on the chair, her back to me. Her dark hair was cascading down her back like silk.

She was. Running a comb through her hair. Just that simple gesture. There was something about her that drew me in. It was something I still couldn't quite place. She was different from the others. More dangerous somehow and more intoxicating.

For a moment, I wondered what was running through her mind. The look on her face gave nothing away, as usual. But there was just something about her. I decide to break the silence.

“Maxine,” I called out.

“Hmm?” She replied, not looking at me.

“How about we get out of here for a while?” I suggested. She looked over her shoulder at me, pausing as she combed her hair.

She looked surprised. Her eyes narrowed at me in suspicion. I could see the question in her eyes. “Out? Like outside the mansion?” she asked, trying to clarify.

I smiled, leaning a