Chapter 49. A Gold Digger

Layla’s POV

Orion approached with Grace, clinging to his arm like a particularly tenacious vine. I knew seeing them walk towards me meant no good for me; I was sure they would cause trouble. The confident sway of their steps was a harbinger of chaos, and my instincts screamed at me to prepare for the onslaught.

As they neared, I could see that Orion’s smile was a practiced thing, a mask barely concealing the glint of something darker in his eyes.

“Layla,” he greeted, his voice smooth as silk. “It’s been a while.” Grace, ever the shadow, trailed behind him, her smile tight and forced, barely disguising her disdain.

“Orion,” I replied, the coolness in my tone a carefully constructed barrier. I didn’t flinch; I didn’t offer any openings for him to exploit. Beside me, Ezra remained a quiet, watchful presence, his demeanor steady but his eyes flicking between me and the approaching pair.

The smile on Orion’s face widened, though it didn’t reach his ey