"I can't say I'm surprised that you passed the tests. Nevertheless, I'm very pleased and I know my special friends are too. Now, I trust you've thought over my offer from last night? It's very generous in my opinion, seeing as you spurned me and tried to have me killed back when we were all friends. No matter; all of that is behind us. Now it's time for you to choose between being my wife, and being the test subject of a potentially harmful experiment." With that folded his hands and stared across the table at her intently. Max took a gulp of champagne to prepare herself, shifting uncomfortably under the weight of his gaze.

"Marry you. I-I'll marry you, but you have to give me your word that you won't turn me."

"Very well, darling, I swear it. Convinced?"

"Hardly. I want to see the experiment done and all the serum used up. Then I'll believe it." Mad Jackson sighed.

"Well this isn't exactly how I'd intended this evening to go, but very well. Now, finish your champagne and follow me." She downed it quickly and followed him down to the lab.

"Guards, restrain her." He noted her look of horror and sighed as two of his men held her by the arms. "It's for your own good, Maxie; we both know how distressed you get watching these and we wouldn't want you to do anything rash. Now, bring in the subjects!" Max's attention was turned towards the door as five gurneys were wheeled in, each occupant struggling fiercely. Max grew pale. Jackson's new test subjects were her adopted 'family': Fang, Nudge, Iggy, Gazzy, and Angel.

Author's Note: Thank you to all who have read, please review! This chapter is dedicated to Theflamingwarrior for your lovely PM and continued interest :)

Much love, Miss Luxe