Max tried dragging her from the window, telling her not to look, but she already saw Vale’s shadow twisting through the flames, his movements frantic and furious. The fire cast him as a dark, distorted figure. Even through the glass, she sensed he wasn’t simply angry; he was unhinged, unpredictable, and terrifying.
When Max peeked again, Vale spotted him. He stormed inside, striking Max so hard the girl gasped. She clamped her hands over her ears, trying to block out the shouting and impact. Everything shook inside her—fear, confusion, and the realization that Max had been protecting her all along.