Maxine shook her head. "No, thank you. I think I just need some time to breathe and clear my head."

Anne nodded, understanding. "You know, Max, sometimes I think you push yourself too hard. You're an amazing writer, you don't need to put so much pressure on yourself."

Maxine forced a smile. "Easy for you to say, Anne. You don't have a ghost chasing you."

Anne frowned, confused. "Ghost? What are you talking about?"

Maxine hesitated for a moment, unsure if she should share her deepest fears with her friend. But Anne had always been her safe haven, the person who knew her better than anyone.

"It's like I'm being haunted by something... something inside of me. A dark force that pulls me down, that makes me question everything I am."

Anne squeezed her hand, her eyes conveying a wave of empathy. "Max, we all have our inner demons. The important thing is not to let them control us."

Maxine sighed, feeling the weight of the previous night dissipate a little. "You're right, Anne. I need to find a way to deal with this, before it consumes me completely."

Anne smiled, her optimism contagious. "And you will, Max. I believe in you."

"But anyway, how was Sarah's party on the weekend? I heard it was pretty lively," Anne commented, trying to change the subject to something lighter.

Maxine gave a half-smile. "Oh, you know how these fraternity parties are. Lots of drinking, loud music, and people trying to hook up everywhere."

"And you? Did you hook up with anyone?" Anne asked, raising her eyebrows with a mischievous smile.

Maxine rolled her eyes, laughing. "No, Anne, I was more interested in observing human behavior than participating in it."

Anne laughed. "Typical Maxine. Always the observant writer."

"Speaking of observation," Maxine began, her eyes lighting up, "did you see Professor Helena's new shoes? I think she sold a kidney to buy them."

Anne burst out laughing. "I saw them! They're Louboutins, aren't they? I'm sure she thinks she's the hottest thing since sliced bread."

The two friends continued to chat, laughing and gossiping about the happenings at the university. The light and relaxed conversation helped to ease the tension that Maxine was feeling.

"Wow, speaking of Helena, have you seen the new department assistant?" Anne asked, changing the subject once again. "He's a hottie! I heard he just graduated from Harvard."

Maxine rolled her eyes, a playful smile on her lips. "Anne, you only think about men."

"Come on, Max! A little romance never hurt anyone. And you could use a little distraction, after that crazy night."

Maxine sighed, silently agreeing. Maybe Anne was right. Maybe an innocent flirtation was exactly what she needed to push away the dark thoughts that tormented her.