Chapter 138

Laila’s POV

Weekends. Oh, how I loved weekends. Those were the only days I didn’t have to think about work, deadlines, or the stress of daily life. It was my sanctuary, my time to rest and rejuvenate. This particular Saturday, I had no plans except to curl up in bed and let the world pass me by.

I was in the middle of a blissful dream when the shrill ring of my phone jolted me awake. Groaning, I reached for it on the nightstand, my eyes barely open. **Nolan’s name flashed across the screen.**

Why is he calling me so early? I wondered, yawning.

“Good morning, Laila,” Nolan’s deep, cheerful voice greeted me.

I stifled a yawn and replied lazily, “Good morning, Nolan. How can I help you?”

His chuckle was warm, almost teasing. “Help me, I help you, huh? Well, I wanted to ask if you’re free this evening. Let me take you out for dinner—just a casual hangout. You don’t relax enough, you know?”

I wanted to decline, truly. I didn’t want to leav