Chapter 38. Determination

Layla’s POV

Waking up this morning, I felt a shiver run down my spine—a reminder of what I was planning to do today. Today was not just another day; it was the day I would confront my past, the day I would reclaim the narrative of my life. After telling Ezra about the plan yesterday, I felt today was the best time to put my plan in motion.

As I went through my morning routine, I tried to calm my racing thoughts. I dressed in a plain black skirt and a floral top, opting for a look that was understated yet confident. Since my divorce, I’d learned to tone down my style; I wanted to appear composed and collected, not overly flashy. My reflection stared back at me, and I studied myself closely, reminding myself that today was about empowerment, not fear.

Finishing up, I grabbed my bag and stepped outside. The morning air was crisp, and as soon as I opened the door to my favorite café, the scent of waffles and freshly brewed coffee hit me with the force of a warm