Chapter 194

Layla’s POV

The restaurant buzzed with activity, as it always did on a weekday afternoon. The smell of grilled meats and freshly baked bread lingered in the air while the sound of clinking dishes and murmured conversations filled the space.

I had been on my feet for hours, attending to customers, cleaning tables, and making sure everything ran smoothly. Despite the chaos, I didn’t feel worn out.

Smiling, I approached a cozy corner table where an elderly couple sat holding hands. The sight of them warmed my heart. They had been regulars for years and always ordered the same meal…a simple club sandwich and two cups of tea.

“How are we today, Mr. and Mrs. Jenkins?” I asked brightly, jotting their order in my little notebook.

Mrs. Jenkins gave me a kind smile. “We’re wonderful, dear. Thank you for asking. And you? You’ve been working so hard lately.”

“