Chapter 36

Maxine's POV

"Please, let me finish. I care about you, Tobias. More than I realized. But we can't act rashly. We have to be smart about this. Your true mate might be out there."

He sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I understand, Maxine. I just want you to be safe and happy. You deserve more than life here."

"I know," I said softly. "And I appreciate that more than you know. But right now. Liam is watching me closely, and I can't risk drawing his attention. I fear his punishment."

Tobias nodded, his expression somber. "You're right. But I don't like how unfair you are being treated. You deserve love, care, and a good life. And it hurts me to see you train day and night. In fact, this is the only thing that gives you joy and peace, and it's not supposed to be so.”

I smiled, liking the way he cared for me, the way he thought good of me. "Tobias, thank you for caring for me. I feel relieved that in this horrible place, I have one or