Page 23 of Kiss Marry Kill

“Is that right?”

“Yes.” Maxwell’s tone was curt.

“You may dismiss me as a quack, but…” Something malicious shifted through River’s gaze. “At least I’ve never killed anyone.”

Maxwell looked as if he’d been slapped. Red spears appeared on his high cheekbones, and he took a step back.

Penelope gasped, looking sharply at River.

“River,” Lucas said in a warning tone.

“What? Am I wrong?” River’s expression was spiteful.

“There… there’s no reason to say something that harsh to Dr. Thornton,” Penelope said, giving Maxwell a wary glance.

“Agreed,” Gerald said. “That was out of line, River.”

River must have grasped that the group wasn’t on his side anymore because his demeanor changed. His expression was repentant as he said softly, “I meant no harm.”

“Then why bring that up?” I asked in a clipped voice, unable to hold my tongue any longer. “You must know that’s a painful memory for Maxwell.”

River’s cheek twitched. “You’re right, Royce, how thoughtless of me. After all, it was onlyonepatient.”

Maxwell clenched his jaw. “I was cleared by the hospital board of trustees and the California Medical Board. I did nothing wrong.”

River shrugged. “Then why is it such a big deal that I dared to mention it?”

Maxwell shook his head, as if he couldn’t find the words he needed.

Anger simmered in my gut as I asked through gritted teeth, “Why are you poking at Maxwell?”

River glanced at me. “I’m not.”

Liar.

“Then drop it,” I snapped.

River scowled. “He insulted me first.”

Lucas leaned into River and muttered under his breath, “Royce is right.Drop it.”

River seemed a little flustered as he said, “Fine. Geez.”

An awkward silence fell.

I could literally feel Maxwell’s anger and anxiety buzzing through him. I just wanted to walk away with him and get him out of this miserable situation. But that felt too much like retreating. Instead, I rubbed his back, trying to show him I fully supported him.

Penelope cleared her throat. “Uh… Janelle sure is a beautiful bride.”

“Absolutely,” Gerald boomed. “The ceremony wasn’t too long either, which I for one appreciate.”

More awkward silence.

“Beautiful weather too.” Penelope’s laugh was forced. “That’s a good sign for the happiness of their marriage.”

Gerald nodded. “Although, it rained the day we married, and we’re still happy.”

She gave a strained smile. “That’s true.”