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She lifted her head and watched me “Like soulmates or twin flames?”

“Yes The string connects the two huether No matter how far away froe” I ran h her moist hair “I’ve always loved the idea of that And thusI’ve always searched for the person who is on the other end ofaround my wrist”

“That’s so beautiful”

“You’re the first woman to ever ask about it”

“It intrigued me”

“Or you know that you’re on the other end of ”

“I don’t”

“But I do I swore it warht”

She smiled “That didn’t happen”

“It’s true Besides, the legend proclaile and be stretched, but the bond never breaks”

She lay back on my chest “That’s more romantic than soulmates”

“Why?”

“I love that the connection is always there”

“Me too”

Silence took over as we cuddled within the warm blanket

Soon, soft snores left Layla

This is probably the otten since her sister ran off

Slowly falling asleep myself, I relished in the softness of her body

This is perfect

Unfortunately, htstand

Damn it

I’d left it there earlier this evening when I went out to greet Layla on the roof

The phone rang again

Sighing, I moved my arm and did my best not to wake Layla

What the hell is wrong?

I picked up the phone and answered, “Before speaking, ask yourself, if this truly is an eency”

Ali’s voice sounded nervous “It is, sir”

I shut my eyes “Go ahead”

“Footman escaped”

Terror hit me I opened my eyes “How?”

“The shackles and handcuffs are still on the floor and attached to chains The trap door is up I don’t know—”

“He must’ve dislocated his thumbs and ankles When did you notice his disappearance?”

“Five o”

“I’ently rolled Layla over and slid out of bed

“Okay, sir”

“Get several guards up here to watch Layla He wouldn’t have left the property yet It would take ti and wet”

10

Pretty Feet

Layla