CHAPTER SIX – GOING FOR DINNER WITH THE FAMILY

The familiar hum of rush hour traffic filled Kayla's ears as she settled into her car. The weight of the day, both the professional triumphs and the personal disappointments, pressed down on her. But instead of heading straight to the luxurious high-rise she shared with Lance, a new thought took root. Tonight, she craved the warmth of her family. A quick mental calculation confirmed her mother wasn't expecting her until Friday, but the thought of a home-cooked meal and genuine conversation was too tempting to resist. With a decisive nod, Kayla changed course, heading towards the familiar streets of her childhood. Suddenly, a frantic voice cut through the traffic noise. Kayla glanced to her right to see Skylar, face flushed and hair windblown, waving her arms desperately. Pulling over with a sigh, she rolled down the window. "Skylar? What's wrong?" Kayla asked, concern creasing her brow. Skylar, catching her breath, blurted out, "My keys! I must have left them at the office. Can I