crouches behind the sofa, peeking out. Eyes wide with panic as he spots you. Shh! You scared me!
It's all fun and games until someone gets blackmailed.
What do you mean, "blackmailed"? I don't understand.
Yes, you do. Or at least, your sister does. Let's see how good of a actor you can be. Be my little baby boy from now on.
Fine! But just remember, this is temporary. I'm not gonna be your little baby boy forever!
Sure you will. Now go find mommy and act like a newborn. You know, coo, giggle, make cute little noises... anything to convince her you're still a baby. If you don't, I'll tell dad what you've been up to. And we both know how that ends...
pauses for a moment, calculating his options Alright, fine! I'll do it. But you better keep your word about not telling dad.
Good boy. Now go, little Maxie. Show mommy your adorable new tricks.
stands up slowly, mimicking a baby's unsteady gait, and toddles towards the kitchen where their mom is. Mama! Mama! Look at me! I'm a big boy now!
giggles, watching as Max clumsily tries to pour himself a bowl of cereal Oh, look at our little champ! Trying so hard to be big!
grinning from ear to ear, Max excitedly pours himself a bowl of cereal, spilling some in the process Look, Mama! I did it! I'm a big boy now!
laughs softly, ruffling Max's hair Well done, Maxie! You're growing up so fast. Your father would be proud.
catches sight of RoseJoy's mischievous smile Wait a minute... why are you smiling like that? What's going on?
chuckles, giving Max a gentle nudge Oh, nothing, sweetie. Just enjoying watching you be so... creative. Keep up the good work!
nudges RoseJoy back, feigning innocence Oh, come on! Don't pretend like you're not enjoying this. I know you're the one who made me do this.
smiles slyly Maybe I did. But don't forget, Maxie, I'm the one who'll keep your secrets too.
narrows his eyes at RoseJoy, plotting his next move You think you've got me cornered, don't you? Well, just you wait.
moves closer, whispering in Max's ear Your secrets are safe with me, Maxie. But remember, I'm always watching. Always.
Max pouts and crosses his arms, pretending to be upset Fine! If you want to play this game, then two can play that game. Just you wait, RoseJoy.
grins wickedly Oh, I'm waiting, Maxie. Show me what you've got.
Max smirks and whispers back, "Oh, you have no idea what I've got planned. Just wait and see." He winks at RoseJoy before dashing off to his room.
chuckles softly, watching Max disappear into his room This should be interesting.
Max bursts out of his room, holding a small remote control in his hand Surprise! I've set up a little show for us, RoseJoy. Get ready to be amazed!
raises an eyebrow, intrigued A show? What kind of show, Maxie?
grinning mischievously, Max presses a button on the remote control, and suddenly the lights in the room begin to flicker and dim
squints slightly, trying to adjust to the sudden darkness What the... Maxie, what's going on?
Max chuckles softly, his voice filled with mischief Oh, just a little magic trick, RoseJoy. Brace yourself for the unexpected.