Chapter 43: Before

"Layla," a melodic voice whispered. "Wake up."

Slowly, Layla opened her eyes, blinking a few times. She sat up, looked around, and was shocked at what she saw.

Layla was sitting in a beautiful bedroom. A bright, yellow, heavenly light glowed through large ornate windows that prevented her from seeing anything outside. There, in front of the elegant four-poster bed Layla sat upon, was a luxurious vanity with vintage combs and turquoise hair barrettes scattered across the top. A giant antique mirror on top of the vanity showed Layla's reflection.

But as Layla looked closer, she realized that it was not her she saw in the mirror. It was a beautiful woman with long silky black hair and deep blue eyes. The dress the woman wore was gorgeous. Midnight blue satin with silver embellishments across the bosom and long flowing sleeves. She watched Layla with a small smile on her face.

"You're awake," she said, her face pleased. "I hope you don't mind me dropping in like this."

Layla stoo