"Sir..." Dexter had never been the impulsive type, but this situation was so far from normal, and he was growing so frustrated with saying the same thing over and over...Perhaps acting on impulse was the thing to do, in this kind of situation. He awkwardly put his arms around Max's shoulders, tugging him closer and petting his greasy hair.

"I realize this must be confusing for you," he said coldly, his real feelings reflected as always reflected more accurately by his actions than his words. "But can you at least continue to trust me? I want only what's best for you, just as I always have." If he could somehow convince Max to believe him, then maybe everything else would fall into place. Unlikely, perhaps; but what else could he do but try?