CHAPTER 434: STRANGE, BUT COMFORTING

Zayne finally understood why Layla wanted him to move into their mansion.

"I’ll think about it, Layla," he said in a contemplative tone. "My biggest concern is that I don’t want to impose. I know you and Lucius are asking out of care, and I truly appreciate that. What happened with June... it left a deep scar. Her betrayal shook me in a way I wasn’t prepared for. I admit, having people around would ease the loneliness, but I still need a bit more time to make that decision."

"I understand," Layla said gently, offering a soft, reassuring smile. "Just know that your presence wouldn’t be a burden. It will only add joy for us."

Their conversation paused as the waiter returned with a food cart, carefully laying out their dishes on the table.

"So, how’s work been treating you?" Lucius asked, reaching for his fork.

"It’s been good," Zayne replied, unfolding his napkin and placing it on his lap.

"Alright then, let’s eat," Lucius said, signaling the start of their meal.

The three of them enjoyed their dinner, the conversation light and steady. As the plates were cleared and the last sips of water were taken, Lucius stood.

"We’ll drop you home," he offered.

Zayne shook his head. "It’s fine, really. I parked my car here."

"Alright," Lucius nodded. "Then let’s walk down together to the parking lot."

As they made their way to the elevator, Lucius placed a gentle, protective hand on Layla’s back. When she pressed the elevator button, the sound of clicking heels approached swiftly from behind, followed by a voice.

"Wait!"

Layla turned at the familiar voice and blinked in surprise. "Bella?"

Orabela stepped in with Kylie just before the elevator doors closed.

"What a coincidence!" Kylie said cheerfully. "Bella mentioned you were pregnant. Congratulations!"

"Thank you," Layla replied, smiling politely.

An awkward silence settled in the elevator for a few seconds. At the first floor, Kylie stepped out, turning back briefly.

"I’ll see you tomorrow, Bella. Take care, Layla!" she said warmly, waving before disappearing down the hall.

When they reached the ground floor, all four of them stepped out together. Layla glanced at Lucius and said, "You and Zayne go ahead. Wait for me in the car."

Lucius nodded, respecting her need for privacy. He and Zayne exchanged a glance before walking toward the parking lot.

"Mom and Dad wanted you to stay with us for a few days," Orabela said gently. "Are you not coming because of me? If that’s the reason, I can move out temporarily."

Layla shook her head. "That’s not the reason. I just... don’t really feel like being there right now. My father-in-law recently had surgery, so I’ve been trying to help out and take care of him," she explained. "But I’ll visit soon. I’m not sure exactly when, maybe sometime next week."

"That’s good to hear," Orabela replied with a small nod. "By the way, I took your advice. I’ve started working at Dad’s company again. They even reinstated me to my old position. I’m planning to launch some new products soon, so you’d better come to the event."

"Of course. I’ll be there," Layla promised with a smile.

"You should go now. Lucius is waiting," Orabela said, glancing toward the black car parked outside, where Lucius stood beside Zayne.

"Hm." Layla nodded, but before she could take a step, Orabela spoke again.

"By the way... Roderick’s getting married, isn’t he?"

Layla turned to her with a puzzled expression. "Yeah, he is. Why are you asking?" She studied Orabela for a moment, then her eyes narrowed slightly with realization. "Don’t tell me you still have feelings for that jerk."

"No, I don’t," Orabela answered quickly, averting her gaze. "I was just... curious, I guess. Never mind. Forget I asked."

"You should really let the past go," Layla said firmly but not unkindly. "And you’ve already paid for what you did. I know it still hurts, but take it as a lesson and move forward."

Orabela hesitated before asking quietly, "Did Roderick ever suffer? Even a little?"

Layla’s expression softened. "Yes, in his own way. I won’t go into the details, but he hasn’t been truly happy in a long time. But Orabela, you do have a good heart. Your mother tried to manipulate you too. But I’m glad you didn’t come into her words. You chose to stop and live a life on your terms, where you don’t have to show-off anyone. You did some evil deeds, but in the end, you chose to be a better person. And that’s what matters."

Orabela’s eyes brimmed with tears, and for a brief moment, she lowered her gaze to hide the emotion rising within her. "Thanks, Layla," she whispered. "Your words... they calm me in a way that’s hard to explain. It’s strange, but comforting." She looked up, her eyes meeting Layla’s with gratitude.

Layla gave her a soft nod, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder before turning to head toward the car.

Meanwhile, just a short distance away, Lucius and Zayne stood near the vehicle, engaged in conversation.

"Orabela has changed, hasn’t she?" Zayne asked, his gaze following Orabela from afar. "Orabela, I mean."

Lucius folded his arms. "Yeah," he replied after a pause.

"Zayne," Lucius began, his voice calm but firm, "consider moving in with us to the mansion. You know I’m worried about you. If you’re right in front of my eyes, I’ll feel at ease."

Zayne looked at him for a moment, then offered a small, appreciative smile. "Alright... I’ll move in."

"Really?" Lucius asked.

"Yes!" Zayne replied.

Lucius smiled. "Great! You took a nice decision," he added.

They both turned as they saw Layla walking toward them while Orabela had already driven off.

"Thanks again for inviting me to dinner," Zayne said, glancing between Lucius and Layla. "I’ve told the Boss. I’ll move into your mansion next month."

Layla’s face lit up, her eyes sparkling with joy. "Yay!" she exclaimed, clasping her hands together like she had just won something.