Chapter seven: Unraveling Secrets

Liya leaned back in her chair, a playful smirk creeping onto her lips. “Okay, but you should know my time is very precious. You know I could have earned five million in five minutes, right?”

Mia rolled her eyes dramatically. “Yeah, yeah, I know. Stop blabbering.”

“Okay, how was your week?” Liya asked, shifting the conversation, sensing something was off.

“Hmm... good,” Mia replied, but her nervousness was palpable, a flicker of hesitation in her eyes.

“What the hell happened? And drop this act! You can't act in front of me, so you better speak up.” Liya folded her arms across her chest, a look of determination on her face.

Mia took a deep breath, the weight of her secret pressing down. “I—I met him,” she burst out.

Liya’s expression turned steely. “Uhhhhhhh, that piece of shit better stay in his place when it comes to my country. He better watch out!” Annoyance surged through her, the protective instincts kicking in.

“Calm down, Li!” Mia urged, holding up her hands.

“What did he say? Spit it out now!” Liya pressed, the urgency in her voice undeniable.

(The details of Mia’s encounter would have to wait for another time, )

They chatted for another hour, the conversation flowing more easily as they caught up on life. Eventually, they decided to head home together. Liya texted Ella to let her know she would be staying at her parents’ house that night.

...----------------...

At Sara and Jo’s House

As soon as Sara opened the door, Sara rushed in, embracing Liya in a warm hug, leaving Mia standing awkwardly at the threshold.

“Am I not your daughter? Did you guys adopt me?” Mia feigned a dramatic pout, clutching her heart. “Oh God!” she exclaimed, pretending to cry.

Sara chuckled, shaking her head. “You’re old now—grow up!”

“But I’m a year younger than Li!” Mia protested, still pouting.

“They're not around doesn’t mean you’ve become younger,” Sara teased, her laughter echoing through the hallway.

Mia sighed dramatically. “I miss them! Whatever, I’m going to change.” She huffed, making her way upstairs.

Jo and Liya exchanged amused glances at the playful banter.

“I didn’t mean it! Let me handle it, okay? Now, Li, you go get changed,” Sara said, her tone softening.

Liya nodded and made her way to her old room.

...----------------...

...Liya’s POV...

I, too, miss them. I hope to return soon.

Entering her room, everything felt familiar, untouched by time. It was as if the world outside had paused; not a single thing was out of place, though the dust of absence lingered. She changed into cozy pajamas, feeling the weight of the day lift slightly, before heading back downstairs.

When she returned, Mia was already sprawled on the sofa, engrossed in whatever horror movie was playing on the TV.

“So, what are we watching today?” Liya asked, settling beside her.

“Horror movies!” Mia declared, bouncing on the couch.

Liya smiled, the comfort of home wrapping around her like a warm blanket. Just then, Sara entered with a tray of food, setting it down in the drawing room. They dove into the snacks, sharing laughter and commentary as the movie unfolded, the scares on screen blending with their light-hearted banter.

Eventually, they retreated to bed, the warmth of family surrounding them, creating a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos of their lives.

...----------------...

The Next Morning

The sun peeked through the curtains, coaxing Liya from her dreams. She dressed for her day at SL Group, slipping into a tailored outfit that exuded confidence

Downstairs, she found her mom, Sara, still in her pajamas, savoring her rare day off.

Liya took her usual glass of apple juice—her morning ritual—and hugged her parents, feeling their love surround her like armor. “I’ll see you later, okay?” she promised, knowing she’d carry their support into her day.

At SL, she had a breakfast meeting scheduled, stopping in front of Rozè Restaurant, a favorite spot known for its ambiance and exquisite cuisine. As she entered, the manager greeted her warmly, leading her to a table.

As she approached, her heart skipped a beat. A man sat there, and the moment she locked eyes with him, her mind went blank. The familiarity of his presence sent a rush of conflicting emotions through her—surprise, anger, and an unsettling sense of déjà vu.

“Liya,” he said, his voice smooth and confident, yet laced with something she couldn’t quite place.

“Why are you here?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper, the tension crackling between them.

“I think we need to talk.”

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