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Chapter 4
She smiled warmly, tilting her head.
“You were quite the legend back in college–the muse of the arts department.”
My breath hitched slightly, but I quickly waved my hands dismissively.[]
“Oh, that’s just an exaggeration. People were just messing around.”
I had hoped that would be the end of it.[]
But Layla wasn’t finished.[]
“No way! I remember people talking about that dance performance you did at the gala. The next day, your dorm entrance was flooded with flowers.”
I barely had time to react before she turned, gently tugging on Leo’s sleeve like a teasing girlfriend.]
“You two were childhood best friends, right? It’s
So
O surprising you never get together.“|
Her voice was light, playful, but her words carried an edge I couldn’t quite place.[]
“Back then, everyone thought you’d get married one day. You were practically inseparable.“[]
A hush fell over the room.]
I felt every gaze shift toward me, waiting for a response.
Layla looked sweet, harmless—but I couldn’t shake the feeling that there was something pointed in her words.
And then, before I could say anything, Leo chuckled.]
With a smirk, he reached for the apple he had just finished peeling and handed it to Layla.
“To you guys, she was just some artsy girl–a’muse‘ or whatever.” He shrugged, turning to Layla with an easy grin. “But to me? She was just a friend. My best buddy. The girl I grew up sharing everything with.“[]
Then, as if suddenly remembering something, he let out a laugh.]
“Oh man, you should’ve seen her as a kid. Every time she cried, snot and tears would mix together- was disgusting. If I didn’t wipe it for her, she’d probably end up swallowing it.“[]
The room erupted in light laughter.
“Oh, and when she was fifteen? She fainted during gym class and started mumbling nonsense. She looked like some kind of deranged zombie–“[]
“I have to go.”
I cut him off before I could hear any more, pushing back my chair.]
My nails dug into my palms, but I forced a small smile, glancing briefly at the elders.[]
“You all enjoy your evening.
Layla hesitated, then turned to Leo, looking guilty.]
“Oh no.. did I say something wrong? I didn’t mean to upset her.“[]
Leo scowled, his gaze snapping toward me, irritation flashing in his eyes–like I was the one ruining the mood.[]
I didn’t let him speak.]
I turned back to the room, my voice light, casual.[]
“Actually, I have a date tonight with my boyfriend. If I don’t leave now, I’ll be late.” 0
Then, without sparing another glance at Leo, I picked up my bag and walked out
