~AXEL~
Before I could respond, my phone rang. Layla's name flashed on the screen.
"Hey," I answered, keeping my voice casual.
"Where are you?" She sounded worried. "I woke up from my nap, and you weren't here. I thought you were just downstairs, but..."
"I had to run a quick errand. Nothing important." The lie tasted bitter. "I'm on my way back now. Should be there in twenty minutes."
"Okay. I was just worried after everything that happened today."
"I know. I'm sorry I didn't leave a note." I softened my tone. "How about we do dinner out tonight? Get out of the house, and clear our heads."
"That sounds good, actually. I could use a distraction."
"Perfect. I'll be home soon, and we'll go somewhere nice. My treat."
"Everything's always your treat," she said with a slight laugh.
"That's what husbands are for."
After we hung up, Tye looked at me with an amused expression. "Smooth. But you're walking a tightrope, Axe. One wrong step and it all comes crashing down."
