Chapter 104

“Max doesn’t have to answer that. Carmela what has gotten into you? You were not like this before.”

As Nichole continued to ramble on, Max could feel his patience wearing thin. Finally, he had had enough.

"Nichole," he said, cutting her off mid-sentence. "I need a moment alone. Excuse me."

With that, he turned and headed for the bathroom, not bothering to look back to see if Nichole had followed. As he closed the door behind him, he could hear her voice, still talking, muffled by the bathroom walls. He leaned against the sink, running his hands through his hair. What was going on with her? Why couldn't she just be quiet.

While Max made his way to the bathroom, Carmela remained seated at the table, a morsel of meat halfway to her mouth. Her eyes followed Nichole as she stood up and hurried after Max, and she felt a knot of worry forming in her stomach.

Mrs. Atom, who had been quiet up until now, suddenly spoke up. "What's going on, dear?" she asked Carmela, her tone full of concern. "I