Chapter Twenty-Six: Reward

Layla clung tightly to the car seat, refusing to leave the car with Tristan. Worried about causing her any pain, he gave up trying to pull her out. Instead, he leaned down and said in a gentle, coaxing voice, "Come on out, please." Ignoring him, Layla crossed her arms and turned her head away. Tristan couldn't help but find her resistance adorable. With a smile, he spoke softly, "Do you want a reward?" Surprised, Layla turned back to him, her wide eyes looking puzzled. "Huh?" Tristan gazed at her without saying a word while extending her towards her. His intentions were clear. She would have a reward awaited if she decided to go with him. But she would have nothing if she didn't. Though Layla knew better than to trust him, she found herself giving in. She placed her hand in his and stepped out of the car. As she fidgeted with her hair, she casually asked, "So, what's the reward?" Tristan's intense stare locked onto her as he leaned in close and softly murmured, "You're looking