Layla's POV
The feeling of circles being drawn at the back of my palm made me withdraw my gaze from Orion, pulling me back to reality. I turned my head to the right, catching Ezra's eye just as he shot me a reassuring smile. Instantly, the scowl on my face softened, if only a little.
His presence offered a sense of calm that I desperately needed amid the growing tension in the auction room.
My mind swirled with different scenarios, each more frantic than the last, as I felt his gentle touch on my hands.
"Don't worry about them; it is not worth it," he said, his voice low yet steady, trying to reassure me.
I appreciated his attempt to comfort me, but the unease gnawed at my insides like an unwelcome guest.
"I can't help it, you know," I managed, my voice shaky as I tried
