The words that Max had spoken, "God, please no", were a natural, involuntary reaction for him. Firstly, he absolutely did not like Karen Stern; he found her to be nearly as unbearable as Sheri's mother, whereas Bobo, despite her business incompetence, was somewhat bearable. That was one part of his feelings. The second, and more pressing part, was that he already didn't want to spend another penny, and now this expensive, unnecessary new venture was being foisted upon him.
Since the situation had turned utterly silent and awkward between them, Max wanted to sort it out quickly before it escalated into a diplomatic disaster. He could even see Karen's face turning slightly red beneath her dark sunglasses.
