Max looked at Lily skeptically. Despite her seemingly genuine concern, his experiences had taught him to trust no one. He had another plan in mind, one that didn't involve strangers offering help in dark alleys.
"Forget about it," Max said abruptly, turning away from her. "I'm fine. Nothing's wrong with me."
Lily's expression shifted to one of confusion and concern. She reached out, gently grabbing his arm as he started to walk away. "Wait," she pleaded, "I know something's not right. You don't have to go through this alone. Please, let me help."
Max felt a surge of anger at her persistence. His heart rate quickened, and the familiar sensation of his muscles bulking up started. "I said, I'm fine. Let me go!" he shouted, his voice deepening into a growl. His body began to transform, his frame expanding, skin stretching, and his appearance shifting into something monstrous.
