"Layla, Uncle mentioned you wanted to speak with me," Roger said, his hand casually sliding into the pocket of his trousers.
"Yes, Rick," Layla replied, her voice tinged with concern. "Lucius isn't doing well. On the surface, he keeps a straight face, but inside… so much is happening. Please, stay close to him. The last time they met didn't go well, and I fear Lucius might be blaming himself for everything that happened."
"You're right," Roger said. "Uncle puts on this tough exterior, but deep down… only he knows how much it's eating him. It started with Dad's death, then Matteo's… and now his mother. It must be weighing on him like a storm inside."
"Hmm." Layla's composure broke, and she began sobbing softly, her tears audible enough for Roderick to notice.
"Hey," Roger's voice softened. "Pull yourself together. I know it's hard for everyone, especially you and my uncle. But you have to think of your baby. You're in a crucial stage of your pregnancy."
