Chapter 31: Making Nice

I already had my own agenda, so when Leila asked that question, I almost spit out my drink. Cough! I faked nonchalance, set the glass back on the table, and played dumb. "You're beautiful… and a really nice person." Leila noticed how awkward I sounded and couldn't help a quick, muffled laugh. "What are you so afraid of?" "No, I'm not," I answered, a little guilty all the same. Seeing my face, she gave a small smile and let it go. My reaction must have disappointed her. Real life was no soap...