Twenty minutes later, Layla and Chloe were heading toward the elevator, the warmth of that upstairs moment still lingering on Layla’s skin like a secret. Nadia remained at the penthouse to continue her recovery, with Maria practically forbidding her from leaving. Marcus waited downstairs beside one of the sleek black luxury SUVs, his posture calm and intimidating as always.Chloe immediately straightened her posture, flashing a bright smile. “Good morning, Marcus.”“Good morning,Miss Chloe,” he replied politely, opening the rear door with professional efficiency. Chloe looked personally offended by his restraint. “One of these days I’ll crack that professional shell,” she muttered to Layla as they climbed in.Layla nearly laughed. “Good luck with that.”The SUV pulled smoothly away from the penthouse. For the first time in weeks, they were truly going back to college. The campus looked exactly the same—sun-dappled paths, students hurrying between buildings, groups gathered beneath
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