Layla

Chapter 13

Habib

I watched from among the crowd as Layla was laughing freely with Sharif. I was almost jealous but I knew better than to be because Sharif is loyal and wouldn't dare be flirtatious with her.

He is a close friend of mine and he knows of my feelings for her. I don't want to like her as much as I do, I am aware that she doesn't feel the same. I am setting myself up to be hurt by this beauty. She turned in the crowd as another man with golden hair just like hers walked up to her. She gave him a radiant smile and embraced him. I felt an anger bubble up from within me. Who dares to touch her knowing that she is mine?!

I turned to my right hand man Abdul {Abb- dull} and my closest companion, "Who is that man and why is he with Layla?"

Abdul simply shrugged, "I don't know who he is but I do know that he arrived with Nour. How he knows Nour or Layla, I'm not sure." He explained.

I nodded stifly, Layla isn't a type to whore around and the man does have an odd similarity to Layla. "Hmm, I guess I'll have to find out on my own." I said arising from the seat and walking out.

I had only gone a few steps when I was stopped by someone grabbing my arm. "Who dares to put their hands on the King of Jabbah?!" I growled, turning to find beautiful fair skin and green eyes. My demeanor immediately softened as I felt guilty at the look of fear on her face.  This woman is driving me insane previously, lover or not, I wouldn't allow anyone to approach me or touch me without permission; this girl grabs my arm and stops me from walking and it doesn't bother me one bit. I have fallen hard for her.

"Sorry, I-I just wanted to apologize for yesterday. It was planned for me to meet your sister and I ignored it. If you don't mind, I can walk with you and explain why." She stuttered at first but caught herself and stood upright with dominance.

I shook my head my heart leaping with joy, "You don't ever have to ask me to walk. Just join me, I was being  honest when I said I intend to make you my wife. I want you to be completely comfortable with me and to be my equal. Come and explain why you didn't show up." I held out my arm for her to take.

I looked down to see her grab my arm and back up to see a beautiful smile imbeded on her face. "Thank you, although I may not express my gratitude often, I am very grateful for everything. My treatment, clothes, maids, jewels, my room, Sharif even! I am indebted to you. You have given me a lot. So yes, thank you Habib." She said, blushing a shade of pink and turning away, trying to ensure that I can't see the rose shade she's become. I greatly enjoy her vigilance and independence for a woman, its refreshing.

My heart swelled at the fact that she called me by my name, the whole time she was here, she referred to me as 'your highness' and 'your majesty'. She may not understand it but her calling me by my name proves that she is slowly growing fond of me.

I smiled down at her, "You don't have to thank me, I would do anything for you."

I held her gaze becoming lost in her emeralds for eyes, but she broke it off clearing her throat the pink tinge retuning. "Uh yes, the breakfast and your sister. Well you see what had occured was that when I left to find Sharif he was going on about how he found my brother-" She continued to speak with a glint in her eyes.

We walked as she explained her story laughing and speaking animatedly. I found out that the man with Layla turned out to be her biological brother named Mazin.  How that's even possible is absolutely astounding but somehow it is the truth. I also found out that Mazin was with my sister because his uncle is the right hand advisor to King Jaffer and he was asked to escort her home. I guess I will have to thank him personally. 

Layla expressed her sincerest apologies to me for skipping out on breakfast but I assured her I wasn't angry at all.

Perhaps she is becoming fond of me as well? She surely has become a lot more comfortable in my presence compared to before. We have made much progress.

The two of us walked in silence for a bit when I suggested an idea. "Habibti I know my mother makes you uncomfortable so instead of introducing Nour over breakfast, how about I take you to meet her now. I promised her some time together and I'm sure she wouldn't mind if you tagged along. She seemed ecstatic over the thought of me finding a woman worthy of marrying me."

She bit her plump bottom lip in thought before flashing me a radiant smile and nodding her head in agreement. I couldn't help but awe at her beauty. This woman is literally breath taking and I doubt she is aware of it. Once again I held my arm out, and she took it, before I guided her to where my sister awaited.

The moment I stepped into the room Nour started complaining. "Habib!?" She whined in protest whilst her back was turned. "How come you took so long! I finally return from my trip and this is how you show me of your love?!" She finally turned, a small pout gracing her pretty face.

As soon as she saw Layla, she straightened her posture and smiled radiantly. "Oh my! Excuse my horrific manners, I am Nour, Habib's younger sister." She explained walking forward and embracing Layla.

Layla stood in shock at the embrace but eventually pulled herself together and hugged Nour back. "It's a pleasure to meet you!" She pulled back from Nour and held her at arms length. "I'm Layla."

*****

So there you have it! Habib's POV! And Layla has finally been introduced to Nour! ❤️

Well I really hope you all are liking it so far! Don't forget to COMMENT VOTE AND LIKE!!!
Love you all so dearly!

Always and forever
Angel. 🦄