Chapter 71
Samantha smiled helplessly.
“I didn’t find money.”
“Did the club give out bonuses?”
Lavia casually tossed her bag onto the couch, tookoff bet jacket, and hung it on the rack. Then, sitting at the table, she grabbed hercutlery “I’ve been working all day—I’m staving.”
After taking a couple of bites, she frowned in confusion.
“Wait. That can’t be right. Since when has the club ever handed out bonuses? And you’re just a part–timer.”
“Of course, the club doesn’t give out bonuses.”
F
Samantha was busy trying to open a bottle of red wine but
struggled with it for a while to no avail.
Layla had mentioned before that wine paired well with food, so Samantha had specifically bought a bottle. Not knowing which one to choose, she had picked one that cost over 300 dollars—an expensive purchase.
Without hesitation, Layla took the bottle and opener from Samantha’s hands “Allow me.”
With just a few quick motions, the bottle was open
There were two glasses on the table. Layla reached for the one in front of Samantha to pour her a drink, but Samantha quickly shook her head
“I don’t drink I got soda instead.”
“You’re really not drinking with such a good meal?
Samantha playfully stuck out her tongue. “I can’t handle alcohol.”
“Alright. I won’t force you. More for me, then.”
“It was meant for you all along”
“That’s sweet. But seriously, why the sudden splurge on all this food today?”
Samantha’s expression turned more serious. She opened her mouth as if to speak but hesitated.
Sensing her reluctance, Layla gently encouraged her. “It’s okay. Just say it. It’s not like I’m going to hit you.”
“Layla, I want to move out.”
“Move out?” Layla’s cutlery paused mid–air as she looked at Samantha in disbelief. “Why? We get along so well, don’t we? Did I do something wrong? If I did, just tell me, and I’ll fix in”
“No, Cayla. It’s nothing like that. Living with you has been amazing, and you’ve taken such good care of me that I even feel a little guilty. But…I have a personal reason, and I have to leave.”
What kind of personal reason? If you’re in trouble, we call figure it out together.‘
Layla’s eamest gaze made Samantha’s guilt surge. She couldn’t even bring herself to meet her eyes. “It’s not trouble. It’s just personal… but I can’t explain.”
She lowered her head like a child caught doing something wrong.
Though reluctant, Layla eventually let out a sigh and nodded. “Alright. If that’s your decision, I’ll support you.
“Thank you”
“Eat up. Let’s call this our farewell dinner.”
She placed a large chicken drumstick in Samantha’s bowl.
Samantha quickly protested, “It’s not a farewell dinner! I’ll all come visit you often.”
“Alright. I’ll make you something delicious when you do.”
