In early 2010, Spinelli is devastated to find out Maxie slept with Franco, but he tries to forgive her. He creates a fake investigation to have Maxie help him solve, in hopes it will showcase his bravery and remind Maxie of when they first became close. However, they get stuck in a drain pipe and Maxie catches hypothermia. After being saved by Johnny, Maxie is told her heart transplant has been compromised. Spinelli blames himself, and even though she pulls through, their relationship remains strained. After Jason voluntarily goes to prison to protect Michael, Spinelli is despondent. In an attempt to make Spinelli fight for her and get him out of his funk, Maxie pretends to flirt with Matt Hunter. Spinelli finds them kissing, and tells Maxie she is free to be with other people. They officially end their relationship and Maxie begins dating Matt.