Daddy's Best Friend

18

CHAPTER 18

Henry’s POV

As the dinner wrapped up, Layla turned to me with a warm smile. "Henry, would you like to hang out for a little while longer?"

I hesitated, not entirely sure if I was up for more socializing after the orchestrated dinner setup. But before I could formulate a polite refusal, Lynda chimed in, her eyes twinkling mischievously. "Come on, Henry, it'll be fun!"

I shot her a mock glare. "You're enjoying this way too much."

Layla laughed, her eyes dancing. "Well, what do you say, Henry?"

After a bit of good-natured back and forth, I found myself agreeing. "Alright, sure."

With that, Layla and I left the restaurant and headed to a late-night comedy show. The atmosphere was lively, with the sound of laughter filling the air. As we settled into our seats, Layla and I fell into an easy conversation.

The comedian on stage cracked a joke, and Layla's laughter was infectious. "I've always loved comedy shows," she admitted.

I nodded in agreement, enjoying the light-hearted atmosphere. "Me too. There's something about laughter that's incredibly therapeutic."

As the show went on, Layla and I shared more stories and laughter. The topics flowed effortlessly, and it felt as though we'd known each other for much longer than just a few hours. I was surprised by how comfortable I felt in her company.

Curiosity got the better of me, and I turned to Layla. "So, what do you do?"

She grinned. "I'm in real estate."

"Ah, a woman in the world of properties," I quipped.

She chuckled. "Exactly. It's challenging but also rewarding."

I found myself genuinely intrigued. "How old are you?"

Layla raised an eyebrow playfully. "Is it impolite to ask a lady's age?"

I chuckled. "Well, I'm just trying to get to know you better."

She smiled, her eyes holding a hint of mischief. "I'm 32."

"Ah, so you're a seasoned pro," I replied, jokingly.

She laughed. "You could say that. And you?"

I hesitated, not used to sharing this kind of information so early on. "I'm divorced."

Her expression turned sympathetic. "I'm sorry to hear that."

I shrugged, trying to downplay it. "It happens."

The comedian's punchline sent the audience into fits of laughter, giving us a moment to enjoy the show. As Layla and I continued talking, I couldn't help but appreciate her genuine interest and easygoing nature. She was a refreshing change from the complexities of my own life.

As the night came to an end, Layla turned to me with a smile. "I had a great time tonight, Henry."

I smiled back. "Likewise, Layla."

We made our way out of the comedy club, the buzz of laughter still lingering in the air. As we said our goodbyes, I found myself considering the unexpected turn of events. Who would've thought that a setup by my friends would lead to such a enjoyable evening?

After the comedy show ended, Layla turned to me with a mischievous glint in her eyes. "You know, the night doesn't have to end here. You're welcome to come over."

I contemplated her offer for a moment. It was tempting, but a part of me hesitated. "Maybe some other time," I replied with a hint of regret.

But before I could fully process my decision, Layla leaned in, and her lips met mine in a passionate kiss. It was a spontaneous, fiery connection that sent a rush of excitement through me. As the kiss deepened, I felt a mix of emotions – surprise, desire, and the lingering taste of adventure.

When we finally pulled away, Layla looked at me with a playful smile. "Until next time, then."

I nodded, trying to regain my composure. "Yeah, until next time."

I dropped Layla off at her house, and as I made my way back to my own place, I couldn't help but replay the events of the evening in my mind. It was unexpected, thrilling, and a departure from my usual routine. Maybe taking a step out of my comfort zone wasn't such a bad thing after all.

As I entered my house, I was greeted by the sight of Sophia waiting for me in the living room. "Hey," I said, slightly surprised. "I thought you'd be out."

She shrugged casually. "Changed my mind. Decided to stay in and study."

I couldn't help but notice the way her eyes lingered on me, assessing. "I was out with friends," I explained, hoping to pre-empt any questions.

Her eyebrow arched, and a playful smile danced on her lips. "Friends, huh? Some of them ladies?"

I chuckled, feeling a mixture of amusement and mild discomfort. "Yeah, some of them were ladies."

Sophia took a step closer, her gaze unrelenting. "You smell like ladies' perfume."

I sighed inwardly, realizing that I was caught in a trap of sorts. "Well, as I said, some of my friends are ladies. It's not unusual for them to wear perfume."

She seemed satisfied with my response but still shot me a teasing grin. "Uh-huh. Well, you do you."

With a smirk, she turned and headed towards her room. As I watched her walk away, I couldn't help but marvel at her ability to read situations and playfully poke fun at me. It was clear that Sophia had a sharp wit and wasn't afraid to challenge me.

With a sigh and a grin, I muttered to myself, "Definitely not a dull moment."

*****

The next day found me back at my office, still musing over the whirlwind of events that seemed to be swirling around me. Just as I was trying to immerse myself in work, the door swung open and Lynda breezed in with her characteristic energy.

"Hey there, Mr. Handsome," she greeted with a wink.

I chuckled at her playful nickname for me. "Hey, Lynda. What's up?"

She took a seat across from me, her expression mischievous. "So, did you have a good time with Layla last night?"

I raised an eyebrow at her, feeling a mix of curiosity and suspicion. "How do you know about that?"

Lynda leaned back in her chair, a triumphant smile on her lips. "Because, my dear Henry, I'm the mastermind behind the whole setup."

I sighed, both amused and slightly exasperated. "Of course, you are."

She grinned. "So, spill the beans. What do you think of Layla?"

I leaned back, considering my words carefully. "She's good. Smart. Easy to talk to."

Lynda nodded approvingly. "Sounds promising. So, what do you say we take it up a notch? Invite her over for dinner at your place?"

I blinked in surprise. "My place? Why?"

Lynda leaned forward, her eyes dancing with mischief. "To make a statement, Henry. Show Sophia that you're not sitting around pining for her. It's time to shake things up a bit."

I chuckled, shaking my head. "You're relentless, you know that?"

She laughed. "Hey, I'm just looking out for you."

After a moment of contemplation, I sighed and grabbed my phone. "Fine. I'll do it."

Lynda clapped her hands in victory. "Great! Call her up and set it up. Let's show Sophia that there's more to your life than meets the eye."

I rolled my eyes, but there was a small smile tugging at my lips. "You're enjoying this, aren't you?"

She grinned. "Absolutely."

I dialed Layla's number, my heart slightly racing with a mix of nervousness and anticipation. When she answered, I managed to keep my voice steady as I invited her over for dinner at my place. To my relief, she agreed without hesitation, and we settled on a date.

As I hung up the phone, Lynda clapped me on the shoulder. "See? That wasn't so hard, was it?"

I shook my head, a bemused smile on my face. "No, I suppose not."

Lynda winked at me. "Get ready for an evening of fun and intrigue."