Chapter 38: Unwanted Side Character

Anastasia could only stand still, her body frozen in place. Diya, next to her, panicked. "No, there must be a misunderstanding." She stepped forward without thinking, but Anastasia's hand stopped her.

"I'm sure there must be—" Diya began again.

"No, it's fine. Let's go back." Anastasia's voice was quick and controlled as she turned on her heel, rushing toward the entrance they had just come through.

Meanwhile, Leo stood by, watching as Daniel, caught off guard by the sudden embrace, looked startled.

"I'm sorry, but I think you've got the wrong person," Daniel said as he carefully removed the woman's arms from his neck, his expression unreadable.

"Oh, I'm so sorry! I thought you were my best friend!" Delilah gave a small, embarrassed laugh.

"Wouldn't it be better to check first next time, Miss?" Leo stepped in, breaking the awkwardness with a raised eyebrow.