So many people saying why can't she be like the old Maxi and not be so stubborn...I find it a little problematic. She has been coming into herself and her growth is of course going to be at odds with Riftan's idealized perception of her as a thing to protect/shield from the world. She was docile back then bc it was a literal trauma response. She's the one that's been moving the needle to them being equals and I for one am here for it. They both have trauma and the slow burn growth is realistic and masterfully written.