Meeting Cindy in an urgency

★★★★★

"Miss Cindy, I really appreciate you taking the time to meet with me," Layla said, stepping into Cindy’s stylishly appointed living room late in the evening.

Cindy’s controlled smile barely masked her surprise as she responded, "How could I refuse? When someone from Jasmine's family calls for a meeting, it’s certainly not something I can ignore. I must admit, it’s quite astonishing."

She gestured towards the coffee table, where she had set down two freshly brewed cups. "Please, have a seat. I’ve prepared some coffee for us."

Layla accepted a cup with a polite nod, though her eyes betrayed her simmering frustration. "Thank you. I have to be honest—I have no desire to involve myself with Jasmine, nor do I consider her a true family member."

Cindy raised an eyebrow, her smile maintaining its polite veneer. "I see. And what has brought you to this conclusion? I understand that family dynamics can be complex, but what exactly has prompted your visit?"

Layla took a sip of her cof