Chapter 438

Jason’s POV

I sighed, setting the glass down and reaching for the pack of cigarettes on the bar. I lit one, the familiar smell filling the room as I took a drag. The nicotine hit me instantly, calming my nerves just enough to get me moving.

The mansion was quiet as I made my way upstairs. My footsteps echoed in the empty hallways, and the dim light from the sconces cast long shadows on the walls. 

I headed to my room, ready to shut out the world for a few hours, but as I passed by Layla’s door, I froze.

A soft sound came from inside.

I stopped, listening closely. It was faint, but unmistakable…sobbing.

My chest tightened. Layla.

Without thinking, I reached for the door handle, turning it slowly to avoid making noise. I pushed the door open just enough to slip inside, and there she was, sitting on the edge of her bed, her shoulders shaking as she cried into her hands.

She didn’t notice me at first, too