The Parallel

-ˏˋ⋆ CHAPTER 7 ⋆ˊˎ-

Leila's POV

As we drove further, we came across a charming duplex that looked like it could offer us some much-needed rest. I couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement at the sight of it. I had never seen a little house like this before. It was quaint and cozy, a stark contrast to the sprawling mansion I had grown up in.

"Wow, this place is adorable!" I exclaimed, my eyes wide with wonder as I took in the quaint little house. "I've never stayed in a place like this before."

Everyone looked at me in surprise, clearly taken aback by my reaction.

"You've never stayed in a place like this?" Brooke asked, raising an eyebrow.

I shook my head, a smile spreading across my face. "No, never! My house is much bigger. It's more like a mansion, really."

Felix, standing a few steps away, let out a scoff. "Figures. A rich, spoiled kid like you probably never had to rough it."

His words stung, and I felt my cheeks flush with a mix of embarrassment and anger. "I'm not spoiled," I snapped, feeling a lump form in my throat. "Just because I grew up in a mansion doesn't mean you can judge me like that."

I stormed into the house, not waiting for a response. My heart was pounding, and I felt tears prickling at the corners of my eyes. I wasn't spoiled. I had just lived a different life, a sad lonely life, with no one but daddy, I couldn't help where I came from.

As I made my way through the house, I could hear the others outside, their voices carrying through the open windows. Felix's voice stood out. "What? I didn't even say anything that bad."

Brooke sighed. "Felix, you've got to be more considerate. Not everyone's experiences are the same as yours."

Theo's voice was softer but firm. "Just give her some space. She'll come around."

Inside the duplex, I let out a shaky breath, trying to compose myself. The place was small but charming, with a lived-in feel that was so different from the cold, empty spaces of my mansion. I could see the potential for warmth and coziness here, something I rarely felt at home.

I tried to push their voices out of my mind as I explored the house. It was modest but had a warm, inviting feel. The living room wasn't too small, more of a medium size but cozy, with a cabriole sofa and a coffee table. The kitchen was just big enough for a small dining table and a few chairs. I wandered upstairs and found four bedrooms, each with a simple bed and a dresser.

Despite the tension with Felix, I couldn't help but feel a little excited about the new place. It was different from anything I was used to, and maybe that was a good thing. Maybe I needed different.

A few moments later, I heard the front door creak open and footsteps approaching. I turned to see Brooke standing in the doorway, a concerned look on her face.

"Hey," she said softly, "you okay?"

I nodded, trying to muster a smile. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just... Felix can be a bit much sometimes."

Brooke sighed, stepping further into the room. "He's just got a rough way about him. Don't take it personally. We all know you're not just some spoiled rich kid."

I appreciated her attempt to comfort me, but Felix's words still lingered in my mind. "Thanks, Brooke," I said quietly.

"Let's just get settled in. This place might not be a mansion, but it could be our home for a little while."

I nodded, feeling a bit better. "You're right. Let's make the best of it."

We headed back to the main living area.