In the evening, Lucius and Layla arrived at her parents' home. To her surprise, both her parents and her sister were waiting at the entryway to welcome her.
While Lucius moved toward the trunk to retrieve their bags, Layla rushed forward, embracing her parents. Miriam stroked her daughter's hair tenderly before pressing a soft kiss against the center of her forehead, her eyes glistening with relief.
A servant hurried to carry the luggage inside, and Lucius walked over to join them.
Darius opened his arms wide and pulled his son-in-law into a firm embrace. "May God give you strength," he murmured. He gave Lucius a reassuring pat on the back before stepping away. "Come, let's go inside."
"I'm sorry," Lucius said, glancing at Layla, "but I have to leave for a while."
"Where do you have to go?" Miriam asked, her concern etched clearly on her face. "You already look so tired. Haven't you been getting proper rest?"
