Chapter 41. Invitation

Ezra’s POV

Activities in the office went on in full swing as I sat in my chair, reviewing the latest reports. But of all the days, today seemed different; there was almost a metallic taste in the air, a sense of unsettling anticipation.

Layla’s earlier report that morning had demanded my attention, not for the details she shared—which were important—but because of the very way, she seemed to carry herself with the topic: the uncharacteristic quiet resolve burning in her eyes and a sense of purpose that had made me admire her.

And when I finally noticed her standing at the threshold of the door with something almost like uncertainty written across her face, I became instantly alert. It was that look on her face again—the one she wore when withholding something; something heavy.

“Layla,” I greeted, looking up from my desk. “Come in, please.”

She entered slowly, sounding almost painfully loud as her heels clacked against the marble floor. She shook