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Chapter 97
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The CEO’s Obsession: Layla, You’re Not Allowed to Die Chapter 98
That evening, the Xander family sat down for dinner. Mrs. Xander barely ate a few bites before setting down her utensils. She looked upset and had no appetite. Mr. Xander glanced at her and asked casually, “What’s wrong? Didn’t you go to a gathering today? What’s got you in a bad mood?” “Don’t even mention it.” The memory of the gathering reignited Mrs. Xander’s anger. “If I had known Scarlett was the host, I wouldn’t have gone.” “Scarlett Dixon?” Mr. Xander paused, his brows knitting into a frown. “Why would she invite you?” “Dad, don’t ask,” Xena said softly, trying to warn him. But Mr. Xander’s expression darkened. “Did Scarlett bully you?” Mrs. Xander sighed, “It’s not entirely her fault. We’re the ones who failed to raise our daughter properly and gave Scarlett something to use against us. If she brought it up, it’s only fair.”She shook her head, her voice heavy with frustration. “Hubby, I still believe we must bring Layla home. It’s not just about
The CEO’s Obsession: Layla, You’re Not Allowed to Die Chapter 99
Meanwhile, Layla had no idea that her family was still scheming to bring her back. At this moment, she was curled up on the sofa, half-listening to Carter’s endless complaints. “It’s ridiculous! Their photos were terrible, so how is it my fault that sales are tanking?“I mean, look at me! I’m this good-looking, but the photographer couldn’t even capture one percent of my charm! Absolute garbage!“I swear, I’m never working with that useless magazine again!” Carter ranted until his mouth was dry. Finally, he grabbed his cup and gulped down some water before turning to Layla. “So, what do you think, sis? I’m right, aren’t I?” Layla, barely suppressing a yawn, replied lazily, “You’re absolutely right. Couldn’t agree more.” Her voice was perfunctory, and she couldn’t help but stifle another yawn. Lately, her energy had been getting worse—most likely a side effect of her medication. No matter how much she slept, it never felt enough. If Carter hadn’t called on her
The CEO’s Obsession: Layla, You’re Not Allowed to Die Chapter 100
“I want to reshoot a new set of photos,” Carter replied.“Alright,” Layla responded casually. But when she noticed Carter’s eyes sparkling as he stared at her, a bad feeling crept up on her. Carter didn’t say a word. He just stared, clearly waiting for her to figure it out herself. Layla felt a chill. “Don’t tell me... you want me to take the photos?” Carter’s face lit up instantly. “Exactly!” he said, excitement overflowing. “Sis, when you came with me to the studio last time, I saw how interested you were in photography. So here’s your chance!” He grinned broadly. “I’ll be your model. You can shoot however you want. What do you say?” “No thanks.” Layla rejected him flatly, not even pausing to consider. “If you’re serious about a comeback, you should get a top photographer to shoot you. With the Lucas family’s resources, that wouldn’t be hard at all.” Carter, however, was undeterred. “Where’s the fun in that?” he countered, his eyes bright wi
The CEO’s Obsession: Layla, You’re Not Allowed to Die Chapter 101
“Why wouldn’t it work?” William responded quickly, without a hint of hesitation. Layla paused for a moment, surprised. Even William trusted her that much?Not wanting her to pick up on anything unusual, William quickly added, “When we went to that photography exhibition, Jenny Jasper seemed to really admire your work. She has a good eye. I doubt she’d be wrong.” “That’s just theory on paper.” Layla didn’t dwell on it. She curled up on the sofa, yawning as she mumbled, “Forget it. I already said yes, so I might as well give it a shot.” Noticing how tired she looked, William suggested, “If you’re sleepy, you should go lie down in your room.” “No need. I’ll just doze off here for a bit.” With that, she closed her eyes and soon drifted off to sleep. William grabbed a blanket and gently draped it over her. He stood by the sofa for a long time, his sharp, deep-set eyes lowered, his dark lashes casting faint shadows.On a stormy night eight years ago, a girl stood dr
The CEO’s Obsession: Layla, You’re Not Allowed to Die Chapter 102
The dry leaves by the lake rustled as a sharp winter breeze swept through, tousling Carter’s hair and revealing a pair of bright, clear eyes that stood out against the blue sky and drifting white clouds.Under Layla’s guidance, Carter moved through one pose after another, his confidence growing with each shot until he seemed to shine from within.Before they knew it, an hour had passed. Layla carried her camera over to the table, preparing to transfer the photos to her laptop. Seeing the brand-new camera and lenses, the team grew even more doubtful. Was she a complete amateur? Had they wasted their time on this? “Carter, are you messing with us? You hired a rookie to take your pictures—what do you think you’re gonna get?” “Yeah, if we’d known this was just some play-pretend photo shoot, we wouldn’t have put in all this effort.” Grumbles and complaints filled the air. But Layla ignored them, focused entirely on her work. Carter stepped beside her, arms crossed, an
The CEO’s Obsession: Layla, You’re Not Allowed to Die Chapter 103
“Got it!” Carter immediately rallied his team, getting everyone moving to change outfits and prepare for the next set of shots. For the remainder of the shoot, Layla pushed through sheer exhaustion, barely holding on. By the time they were wrapping up, her head felt light, and dizziness crept in. Carter and the team gathered around the computer, selecting photos, while Layla stood off to the side, carefully packing up her camera and lenses. She wiped down each lens with meticulous care, treasuring them like a general cherishing his sword. Given her condition, this could very well be the last photoshoot of her life. She was exhausted, but she had loved every moment of it. Thinking about it now, she was genuinely grateful to Carter for giving her this opportunity. Once she was done, Layla tried to stand up and let Carter know she was heading out. But the moment she rose to her feet, a wave of darkness washed over her, and she collapsed backward, completely drained
The CEO’s Obsession: Layla, You’re Not Allowed to Die Chapter 104
Carter scrolled through the comments on his phone while talking to Layla over voice chat, grinning from ear to ear. “Sis, this is hands down the best day I’ve had since entering this industry! “Eason Lopez is probably tossing and turning in bed tonight, wondering who shot these photos for me!“Just look at this engagement—it’s off the charts…” Then, with a hint of regret, Carter sighed. “But why wouldn’t you take credit? You worked so hard on these shots. Wouldn’t it mean more if the whole world knew?” Before posting the photos, he had asked for Layla’s opinion. But she had been firm—no name. So, he respected her decision. “What’s the point?” Lying flat on her back, Layla stared at the ceiling, her voice indifferent. “With my condition, who knows when I’ll drop dead? The less attention, the better.“Besides, this is bound to make enemies. If my name is attached, won’t Eason Lopez come knocking at my door?” She yawned. “I’d rather avoid unnecessary trouble, so d
The CEO’s Obsession: Layla, You’re Not Allowed to Die Chapter 105
In elite circles, flaunting wealth outright was considered tacky. Instead, the truly influential pursued higher forms of sophistication, using culture and refinement to showcase their status. Collecting art had become their new battleground for social competition. A group of wealthy socialites gathered, animatedly discussing Jenny Jasper’s work, each offering their own "insightful" critique. Scarlett, though utterly uninterested, couldn’t let it show. She forced herself to recite, word for word, the art analysis she had memorized the night before. Faking it was exhausting, but hearing the other women praise her expertise? That, she enjoyed. “Oh, it’s nothing,” Scarlett said with a polite smile, though her expression betrayed a hint of smugness. “Once you’ve studied as much art as I have and immersed yourself in enough exhibitions, you’ll develop your own sharp eye.” Just then, one of the women tugged at her arm. “Isn’t that Layla over there?” Scarlett followed her
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The CEO’s Obsession: Layla, You’re Not Allowed to Die Chapter 124
After hearing about Layla’s accident, Mr. Perry Sr. had called Sean to the family estate to get the full story. At the time, Sean had insisted that he had to earn Layla’s forgiveness. But it was far too late for that. Xena’s pregnancy had completely shattered Mr. Perry Sr.’s faith in him. There was no way he would allow Sean to disturb Layla ever again. So, right then and there, Mr. Perry Sr. had locked Sean in the house, forcing him to stay put. Over the past few days, Sean had gone on and on about how sorry he was, repeating his regrets so many times that Mr. Perry Sr. was sick of hearing them. Thinking about it now, Mr. Perry Sr. felt a headache coming on. “That foolish boy only learned to cherish what he lost after it was already gone. What’s the use of that?” Worried that Layla might overthink things, he quickly added, “I’m not telling you this to ask for forgiveness on his behalf. Frankly, I don’t even have the face to do that anymore.” Layla simply smiled
The CEO’s Obsession: Layla, You’re Not Allowed to Die Chapter 123
“Although the suspect still hasn’t been caught, the police managed to track down a group of young people who were camping on the mountain that night. One of them is absolutely certain they saw someone at the scene.“After examining the area, the police found footprints and were able to estimate the driver’s height and weight. They’ve put together a fairly complete profile, but unfortunately, there’s no match in the national database.“There’s a high chance he’s an undocumented immigrant, which makes tracking him down extremely difficult.” As William spoke, a peeled orange segment appeared in front of him. He paused, glancing up. Layla smiled. “Mr. Lucas, you must be thirsty.” William took the orange without much thought and asked casually, “You’re really not worried?” “What’s the point of worrying? Even the police can’t find him—what, am I supposed to think I can?” Leaning back against the headboard, Layla continued, “I’m just curious. How did Xena even find that drive
The CEO’s Obsession: Layla, You’re Not Allowed to Die Chapter 122
After a week, the nationwide search warrant for the driver had turned up nothing, and Xena was finally released back to the Xander family. To ward off bad energy, Mrs. Xander had burned sage at the entrance, insisting that Xena walk through the smoke before coming inside.“My dear Xena, you’ve suffered so much.” Tears welled in Mrs. Xander’s eyes as she reached out to touch her daughter’s face. “You’ve lost weight these past few days.” “I’m fine.” Xena smiled and shook her head. But Shane wasn’t as forgiving. “She put you through hell in that police station, and you’re still saying you’re fine? Even after everything, you’re still defending that cold-blooded woman?” “Shane, don’t talk about my sister like that.” Xena placed a hand over her stomach, lowering her gaze with guilt. “It’s true that getting pregnant with Sean’s child was an unforgivable mistake. If this makes my sister feel better, then I have no complaints.” “You—” Shane was furious. “This isn’t somethi
The CEO’s Obsession: Layla, You’re Not Allowed to Die Chapter 121
Levi narrowed his eyes suspiciously. “Aunt Scarlett, you had nothing to do with this, right?” “Of course not!” Scarlett denied it immediately. “I may have wanted her to go back to the Xander house, but I’d never go as far as putting her life in danger!” Levi stroked his chin, thinking for a moment. Then, as if casually, he said, “So, you were involved in getting Miss Xander back to the family, but after that, you had no idea what happened?” “That’s… exactly it,” Scarlett responded instinctively. But the second she said it, she realized she had slipped. Too late to take it back now. Levi let out a sigh. “Aunt Scarlett, if William finds out about this, he’s definitely going to be pissed at you.” “I know…” Scarlett lowered her head, feeling wronged. “I just didn’t expect the Xander family to be this outrageous. They couldn’t even keep an eye on her properly!” “You probably thought Miss Xander left the family just because she was throwing a tantrum, didn’t you?” Levi aske
The CEO’s Obsession: Layla, You’re Not Allowed to Die Chapter 120
After thinking it over, Layla still couldn’t bring herself to ask.Instead, she nodded again. “No matter what, thank you, Mr. Lucas.”All she could say was thank you—over and over again.For some reason, William felt irritated. He stood up abruptly. “Get some rest.”With that, he turned and left the hospital room.Layla frowned in confusion. Since when did saying thank you make someone angry?Meanwhile, William shut the door behind him and spoke quietly to Mike. “You’re in charge here. From now on, you’ll stay by Miss Xander’s side. If anything happens to her, you know what the consequences will be.”Mike lowered his head. “Understood.”Just a word, but his tone was solemn.From this moment on, Layla’s life was more important than his own.William didn’t say anything else. He glanced up and met Levi’s amused gaze.Walking toward him, William asked, “What is it?”“Nothing. Just curious.” Levi slipped his hands into the pockets of his white coat and grinned as he leaned in. “
The CEO’s Obsession: Layla, You’re Not Allowed to Die Chapter 119
“Layla, your brother is right. You need to rest now.” Sean’s voice was gentle, but his gaze subtly flicked toward William, his hostility unmistakable. Layla found it laughable. Even now, Sean still had the energy to be jealous. “Get out.” Sean’s face froze in disbelief. “You’re telling me to leave?” “What else?” Layla snapped impatiently. Sean pointed at William, unwilling to accept it. “What about him?” “Not your business.” Layla’s patience wore thin. Just looking at him made her head hurt. She rubbed her temples, trying to ease the pain. Levi took the hint and spoke up. “Mr. Perry, you should listen to Miss Xander. What she needs most right now is rest.” Sean knew exactly who Levi was—one of William’s closest associates. And since Levi was speaking as a doctor, staying any longer would only make him seem inconsiderate. With no choice, Sean reluctantly backed down. “Fine, I’ll go for now.” He looked at Layla with deep affection, hi
The CEO’s Obsession: Layla, You’re Not Allowed to Die Chapter 118
Following Layla’s request, William had the police called in. By the time officers arrived, he had already prepared all the necessary documents—medical reports, evidence, and statements. Levi, Layla’s attending physician, had also shown up early to assist with the investigation. Watching everything unfold so smoothly and efficiently, Layla felt a quiet shock ripple through her. “So, while I was unconscious, William had already planned for this,” she silently remarked. Her gaze shifted toward him, a flicker of gratitude rising in her chest. With the officers' assistance, Layla gave a detailed description of the driver. Moments later, the police produced a sketch. The lifelike face on the white paper startled her. It was exactly him. Xena only stole a brief glance before subtly furrowing her brows. A perfect match. Layla’s memory was annoyingly sharp. Once she nodded in confirmation, the officers carefully put the sketch away. “We’ll do everything
The CEO’s Obsession: Layla, You’re Not Allowed to Die Chapter 117
Mrs. Xander rushed forward anxiously. “Xena, are you okay? Did they hurt you?” Xena shook her head, tears streaming down her face. “I was just scared… I don’t even know what I did wrong…” Mr. Xander’s expression darkened as he turned to William.“Mr. Lucas, you’ve already found Layla. Can we take Xena home now?”“Don’t you all want to know what she’s done?”Layla forced herself to sit up, her body still weak.Without a word, William reached out to steady her, his grip firm but natural.Then, he lowered his voice just enough for her to hear.“Say whatever you want—I’ve got your back.”Layla froze for a moment, instinctively glancing at him.A warmth spread through her chest, and her confidence grew.Before she could speak, Xena abruptly cut in, panic flickering across her face.“Layla, you begged me to let you go! And I was the one who told Mr. Lucas where to find you!“What are you trying to say now? Are you blaming me for setting you free? Did I force you to run
The CEO’s Obsession: Layla, You’re Not Allowed to Die Chapter 116
At the hospital, Layla slowly opened her eyes, momentarily disoriented by the stark white walls.For a moment, it felt like a dream—like she couldn't tell what was real anymore.“Where… am I?” Her voice was hoarse and scratchy. “You’re awake?” William’s hand instantly gripped hers, his voice urgent. “Do you feel any discomfort?” “I…” Layla instinctively tried to move—only to suck in a sharp breath of pain. “Ahh—” “Don’t move.” William gently pressed her down, his voice soft yet firm. “You have two fractured bones and a stab wound in your abdomen. You need complete rest.” Layla’s brows furrowed slightly as she murmured, “So it wasn’t a dream. Xena really tried to kill me.” William didn’t catch her words. “What?” Before she could answer, a chaotic commotion erupted outside. The door was pushed open, and a group of people forced their way into the room despite the guards’ attempts to stop them. Sean rushed straight to her bedside, his face fu
