Chapter 37

• Max walked out of Grandpa Smith's office, his thoughts full of unanswered feelings. As he reached the gate, he recognized a familiar person standing there, her silhouette highlighted by the fading light of the setting sun. It was Marie. She stood tall, arms crossed, with an enigmatic face. Max felt his heart skip a beat. He'd been unprepared for this confrontation, but he knew it was coming.
• Dave walked from the office, his movements slow and cautious. He'd received a text from Marie notifying him that she was waiting outside, and he wanted to get her before she ran into Max. Unfortunately, it was too late.
• "Marie," Max shouted out, his voice full of hope and despair.