Layla Pov
I was sitting at my desk, engrossed in work when the shrill ring of my phone cut through the air. Glancing at the caller ID, I saw my mother calling. Curiosity mingled with a hint of concern as I picked up the phone.
"Hello?" I answered, my voice laced with anticipation.
"Layla, sweetheart," my mother's voice crackled on the other end, "I have some news about Nadine."
My heart skipped a beat. Nadine was my cousin and one of my closest friends. We had grown up together, sharing secrets and dreams. Instantly alert, I leaned forward in my chair, urging her to continue.
"She has been injured at work," my mother continued solemnly. "It seems quite serious."
Shock coursed through me like an electric current. My hand trembled slightly as I reached for my bag, ready to rush out of
