19

Layla was sure the world became a little brighter and more peaceful the moment she saw Alaric sitting at his desk. He lifted his head from the book he was reading and his gaze fell on her. Her stomach fluttered as his lips curved into a charming smile.

“It’s nice to see you, Layla.” He said, standing up from his seat.

“It’s nice to see you too,” she replied, trying not to seem too excited as she walked to him.

“How has Nox-Luminis been treating you so far?” He asked, and her smile twitched to a small frown.

‘The worse. Everybody hates me and looks like they want to kill me. I feel like I’m losing my mind.’ She wanted to rant but held back her words. She couldn’t just dump all her problems on him.

“Crazy, but it’s been alright,” Layla lied, trying to sound optimistic, and his smile lowered.

“Are you sure? You don’t look alright.” Alaric pointed out, stepping a little bit closer and placing his hand on her cheek. “You look quite tired. Have you been sleeping and eating well? It’s the do