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Actually, I was expecting the interrogations to begin way before that.

Right on cue, Jess coughed, and I kicked her under the table.

She ignored me, and pointed her fork at Max. “What exactly do you do when you’re not corrupting our innocent housemate?”

Corrupting? I mouthed.

Max didn’t even blink.

“I write musical arrangements, for choirs, small orchestras, and occasionally groups who want something tailored.”

“That sounds impressive,” Maya commented.

“It pays the rent.”

“And the singing thing?” Jess asked. “Quinn says you’re part of a group.”

He smiled. “I’m hoping that will also pay the rent—eventually.”

Sam leaned back in his chair. “I won’t do the boring small talk thing and ask where you two met, because we already know that part. Quinn came home from the club and you were all he could talk about.”

“It was not like that,” I insisted.

Maya grinned. “You were glowing.”

I glared at her. “You always say that.”

Max touched my hand. “But she’s right. Because looking at you now? You’re glowing.”

“It’s either really expensive moisturizer, or it’s the effect Max has on you.” Jess smirked. “I know which one I’d lay money on.”

Sam cocked his head. “Just so you know? Quinn doesn’t usually bring people home.”

I caught my breath. Don’t do this.

Max covered my hand with his. The warmth of his palm settled over my fingers, steady and deliberate, and I went still.

“Then I’m honoured,” he said.

Sam’s gaze dropped briefly to our hands, then he looked back up at Max. After a moment he nodded once and smiled at me.

“He just passed.”

Jess raised her glass. “Congratulations, Max. You survived the interview.”

Breathing suddenly became easier.

Dinner eventually came to an end. Jess and Maya disappeared into the kitchen to argue about dessert while Sam stacked dishes with quiet efficiency.

Max squeezed my hand. “I should probably get going.”

I knew he’d have to leave at some point, but my heart still sank a little. “I’ll walk you to the door.”

Jess appeared in the doorway just in time to hear that. “Of course you will,” she murmured.

I ignored her.

Max slipped on his boots while Sam opened the door for him.