Indeed, he suspected Maxine because the timing of these occurrences was too suspicious. Thea suspected the same. That was why she reminded James not to fall for Maxine’s trap. Though she did not voice her thoughts, James nonetheless came to the same conclusion.

She smiled and said, “Get going, then. I’m pregnant, but my strength isn’t beneath yours. Only a handful of people can stand a chance against me on the battlefield. Even if Maxine has ascended the Ninth Stair, she might not be able to d