Ear pressed to the wall, Max held up a hand to silence Gertrude. He concentrated, trying to hear who the mysterious couple in the other apartment were conversing with. Either they knew someone might overhear them and opted to be cryptic, or Max needed a refresher course in English. Gertrude stood in the doorway, hands resting on ample hips, as she scowled at him. “Max, stop snooping on the neighbors.” “Loose lips sink ships.” “The war is over, darling.” “Can’t…
“Add the apple,” Selena hissed. Drake frowned. “Aren’t you supposed to use eye of newt?” Selena glared at him and tossed a handful of herbs into the pot, turning the mixture blue. “This isn’t a fairy tale, Drake. Now help me.” Arm outstretched, revealing a phoenix tattoo on his wrist, he obeyed. “I don’t understand how simmering random junk in Mom’s stockpot will get you anywhere.” Not answering, Selena turned the heat off and, outside, tossed the contents against the…
Max growled with frustration. He’d wasted hours trying to solve the stupid, cryptic letter because he couldn’t find any of his friends. Worst birthday ever. About to crumble the paper, he grinned, realizing each line started with an R or an L. A smile tugged at his lips as he plunged headfirst into the labyrinth. At each corner, he turned with unwavering resolve, his pace increasing as his heart raced. The scenery became a blur around him. He rounded the…