Chapter 360
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“Lyla, what’s wrong?” I asked.
I suddenly heard Lyla’s crying over the phone. My heart clenched, and I gently asked what was happening.
“Lyla, don’t panic. Take your time to tell me what happened.”
Lyla’s voice was shaky and interrupted by sobs. “My… my grandma suddenly got very ill. It’s serious. I need to go home right away. But what about my work here? I’m so worried…”
I took a deep breath and tried to calm myself while hoping to give her some comfort.
“Lyla, don’t worry about work. Your grandma’s health is the priority right now. Pack your things and go home at once. I’ll take care of your work.”
“Really? But this project is so important to us…” she sounded hesitant, and her voice trembled with uncertainty.
I interrupted her in a firm tone, “Work is important, but family is more important. Go home and take care of your grandma. Leave everything else to me.” Lyla had secured a good internship at a reputable company to ensure a smooth path to graduation, but now her grandma’s illness was a heavy blow to her. “You know, right now you’re my only friend. We went through the hardest times in high school, and though we went to different universities and are just in the early stages of our careers, you’re the only person I can turn to.” Lyla was already choking up, but I understood the deep bond we shared.
“I know you’re struggling, and I wish I could be there with you right now, but I’m not sure how much I can help from here.”
My heart felt heavy from hearing her sobs over the phone, and I could barely breathe.
I understood that given the weight of the distance and reality, comforting words were light, but they carried immense emotions and responsibilities.
“Lyla, listen to me. The most important thing right now is for you to be strong. Though she’s left us, forward. You’re not alone; I’m right here.”
I’m sure she’d want to see you face life bravely and move
I tried to keep my voice strong and steady, hoping to bring her strength and warmth through the line. Lyla’s silence spoke of her internal struggle and sorrow, but I believed time would eventually heal her wounds. Love and support would be her strongest anchor. “Thank you, Eve. Having you here makes me feel so much better.”
I knew my words had little power, but I hoped they could calm her troubled heart. After ending the call, I quickly booked a plane ticket home.
Seeing the team around me, I let out a long sigh and knew it was hard to say what I had to, but I had no choice.
“I’m really sorry. I planned to stay till the end, but I have to go back for a while. I don’t know if I can make it in time for the competition, but I hope you won’t hold it against me.”
I would submit the blueprints on time, but I had to leave. Lyla had just lost her grandma, and I had to be there for her. “Don’t worry. We’ll manage everything here, but promise us one thing, don’t let sadness overwhelm you.” Enjoy Ad-Free Reading>>