84

LAYLA

Reporters. News vans. I came to him. I started driving, taking turns, and here I was. Smith industries.

I wasn't the only one. The news was spreading quickly. It was merely 4 p.m. and the whole place was still buzzing. Security was handling the situation but Aiden wasn't out. Neither was just father.

I had clearance to go in, up to his office, and glance at Giselle at her desk who paid no attention to my movements engrossed in her world.

Now I was at his door, listening for sounds at the other side. Silence. Did he go home? Pacing in the office? Sleeping? Was he on the phone with her?

Making flight arrangements?

I wouldn't know until I got behind those doors, so I did.

He left it open, one push and it bulged.

His name hung in my throat as I slid inside, softly edging the door shut.

And there he was. Hands plopped on each side of his face, head nestled between his legs. Either he was deep in thoughts, or too unbothered to check who had walked in.

Then there was a scuffle, he adjus