Chapter Seventy One: A Table Set for Confrontation

"This way, please," the waiter said, leading Layla and Derek above the ground floor of the building to the upper level. As they ascended, Layla noticed the lower floor bustling with patrons, while the upper floor remained eerily empty. She spotted Canaan immediately as she climbed the last stairs, his figure standing out amidst the vacant tables. The waiter shifted to the side and gestured for her to continue walking toward Canaan, his hand extending in a silent invitation. He delivered a low, respectful bow to Layla, holding it for a moment before descending the stairs with quiet efficiency. Layla adjusted the strap of Derek's baby carrier on her shoulder, biting her tongue in contemplation. For a moment, she stood frozen, pondering Canaan's true intentions. Why had he invited her to dine with him in this luxurious restaurant? She shrugged, her shoulders rising in a mixture of curiosity and wariness – perhaps she wasn't here to dine after all. "Don't just stand there," he sai