Real Heiress: Flash Marriage With Boyfriend's Uncle - Chapter 68

Chapter 68: To live your life fully

“Ruby, I haven’t forgotten you,” Layla said, her voice soft with regret. “So much has happened, and I couldn’t reach out sooner. But I promise, I’ll come see you soon.” She hung up the call and glanced at the clock—it was already lunchtime. In a rush, she headed to the office, only to find Lucius reclining in his chair, seemingly at ease.

Her steps faltered as she noticed how peaceful he looked. ‘Is he asleep?’ she wondered, hesitant to disturb him. As Layla moved closer, she busied herself by tidying his cluttered desk, trying to make as little noise as possible.

The soft rustle of papers, however, stirred Lucius from his slumber. He blinked awake, but instead of speaking, he simply watched her, his eyes tracing the delicate lines of her figure with a quiet admiration.

When Layla finally turned around, startled to see him awake, she stammered, “When did you—”

“Just a moment ago,” Lucius interrupted smoothly, his voice still laced with the remnants of sleep. He reached for her wrist, his grip gentle but firm, and before she could react, he pulled her onto his lap. His fingers grazed lightly across her temple, tucking away a loose strand of hair. “Are you feeling better now?”

“Yes,” she whispered, her voice barely audible over the thudding of her heart.

His expression darkened, the tender moment giving way to something fiercer. “They’ve caused you enough grief,” he said, his jaw tightening. “I’ve offered you the chance to let me handle them—my way. Why do you insist on carrying this burden alone?” His voice grew softer but more intense, as if every word was a vow. “I want to lay a path of roses at your feet, free of thorns. Just say the word, Princess, and I’ll make sure they never trouble you again.”

“Will that ever make them regret what they’ve done to me? The damage they’ve caused in my life?” Layla asked, her voice laced with bitterness. “I want them to feel the weight of their actions, to burn in guilt for the rest of their lives.”

Lucius hummed thoughtfully, releasing his hold on her. “Perhaps,” he said, standing up and offering her a hand to steady herself. “But for now, let’s focus on lunch.” He turned to his desk, pulling open a drawer to retrieve his phone, while Layla headed toward her own workspace.

“I made a few friends from the secretarial staff,” Layla said as she checked her phone. “They invited me to join them for drinks this evening.”

Lucius raised an eyebrow, adjusting the buttons on his blazer. “Did you tell them you’re a bad drinker?” he asked, his tone light but teasing.

Layla chuckled nervously, glancing over her shoulder at him. “How could I say that? It’s the first time I’ve been invited out by colleagues. I want to go,” she added, her eyes bright with excitement.

“Of course, you’re free to go,” Lucius replied with a small smile.

“Will you come with me?” she asked, though her voice hinted at uncertainty.

“Yes,” he answered without hesitation.

Layla frowned slightly, biting her lip. “But then everyone will feel awkward. They know we’re husband and wife, and having their boss there might make them uncomfortable. They might not speak freely with me if you’re around.”

Lucius considered her words and nodded in understanding. He could see she wanted to bond with her colleagues, something she hadn’t had much opportunity to do before. “I’ll keep my distance then,” he agreed easily.

Layla softened at his understanding, guilt flickering in her expression. “I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings.”

“I’m not hurt, wife,” he reassured her, closing the distance between them. His voice was tender as he continued, “You deserve to enjoy yourself, to live your life fully. I won’t take that away from you. Just… don’t drink too much, alright?” His tone was playful as he reached out and flicked the bridge of her nose gently with his finger.

Layla smiled, warmth spreading through her at his words, feeling both grateful and relieved. She pressed a soft kiss on his lips and went ahead of him toward the door. It made him chuckle and he followed her.

~~~~

At the restaurant, Lucius and Layla enjoyed a hearty lunch, their conversation light and pleasant. After a while, Layla excused herself, pushing back her chair. “I’ll be right back,” she said with a small smile before heading toward the restroom.

In the quiet restroom, she washed her hands, the cool water calming her as she collected her thoughts. Just as she was about to reach for a towel, a familiar voice called out behind her.

“Layla!”

Startled, she looked up in the mirror to see Kylie, one of Orabela’s close friends, standing at the entrance, her eyes wide with excitement.

“Oh my god! It really is you!” Kylie exclaimed as she rushed forward, wrapping Layla in an unexpected but enthusiastic hug. Layla blinked, momentarily caught off guard by the sudden embrace.

Kylie pulled back, her eyes sweeping over Layla’s face with a grin. “You’ve got that afterglow—married life really suits you!” she gushed, her voice filled with admiration. “You look absolutely radiant.”

Layla, still surprised, gave a small smile in return. “Kylie, it’s been a while.”

Kylie nodded eagerly, still holding onto Layla’s arms as if afraid she might disappear. “You know, you were on the national news. I was so shocked to find out that you married Lucius De Salvo! I mean, I never expected that! But then again, my dad knows him personally, so I never really bought into all the gossip. Unlike others, I didn’t have any prejudices against him,” Kylie added with a proud smile.

Layla forced a polite smile, unsure how to navigate the conversation. “I see,” she murmured, feeling slightly uneasy.

Kylie had never been cruel to her directly, but she had always stood by Orabela, who had made her high school and college years difficult. Layla wasn’t sure if Kylie was being genuine or if she was playing some sort of game. The uncertainty about her character made Layla cautious.

Kylie seemed oblivious to Layla’s inner thoughts. “Oh, by the way, we’re having a reunion party this upcoming week. You must’ve heard about it, right? You should totally come! It would be great to see you there,” she said with enthusiasm, her eyes shining.

“I’ll see if I have time,” Layla replied carefully, not committing to anything. The idea of attending a reunion, especially one where Orabela might be present, wasn’t exactly appealing. “Anyway, my husband’s waiting outside, so I should get going.”

“Oh, of course!” Kylie stepped back, giving her a quick smile. “But do think about the party!”

Layla offered a small nod before turning on her heel and leaving the restroom.