Chapter 44: Hard to focus
Lucius returned from the restroom and immediately noticed Layla’s uneasy expression.
"Everything okay?" he asked, his brow furrowing in concern.
Layla glanced at him and sighed. "Roderick’s mother called your phone, and I answered. I think Roderick told her about our past."
Lucius’s face hardened. "Did Fiona say something to you? Tell me, and I’ll—"
Layla raised a hand, gently cutting him off. "No, she didn’t get the chance. Roderick took the phone from her before anything else was said. But it doesn’t matter anymore. Even if he told her about us, it’s in the past. He needs to deal with it on his own now." Her voice was calm, but her gaze was steady and determined, signaling that she had moved on from whatever entanglements remained with Roderick.
"That’s good to hear," Lucius replied, watching as Layla took a sip of her drink. "However, on my end, I’m going to find out what happened with Roderick and his mother."
Layla set her glass down, her expression shifting slightly. "Lucius, let’s not concern ourselves with what’s happening over there. We’re here to enjoy ourselves, so let’s focus on that," she said, her smile returning as she tried to lighten the mood.
"Oh, let’s go to the ocean! I’ve always wanted to build a sandcastle. But just so you know, I won’t be going into the water," she asserted, a playful glint in her eyes.
"Sure," Lucius agreed, his spirits lifting at her enthusiasm. He finished the fruit drink he had ordered, the vibrant flavors lingering on his palate as he prepared to follow her lead.