Ruby reached for the edge of the sideboard as a sudden wave of dizziness rolled over her, more intense than the headache from before. She felt the blood drain from her face, the room tilting just enough to make her breath hitch.
Max was at her side in an instant. He didn't ask; he simply tucked an arm around her waist to steady her. "That's enough," he said, his voice dropping into that low, protective register that brooked no argument. "You're pale, Ruby. You're shaking."
"It's just the stress," she whispered, though she leaned into his strength more than she intended to. "And the news. Knowing Seron is doubling down on Violet's filth... It's enough to make anyone sick."
"It's more than that," Max countered, his eyes searching hers with a fierce intensity. He looked over at Samuel, who was watching them with a clouded expression. "Samuel, find out which dock they're using. I want the exact coordinates of that 'contact' at the port. But Ruby, you are done for the night."
