Ivy replied immediately. [Make less next time, Layla. You have to be mindful of the portion. If you cook a smaller portion, it will not be as tiring.]

[I think I'm just going to order food tomorrow.] Layla replied.

Ivy replied with a laughing emoji.

[Mom video called me just now and already I feel homesick. I want to go home! But I can't! I've already bought the apartment, and I can't just go home!] Layla typed.

[Layla, just watch a movie or something. You will get used to it.]

[Yeah, you are way more independent than I am. Are you departing tomorrow?]

[Yeah, my plane takes off tomorrow morning. I need to go to sleep earlier than usual tonight.]

[Rest well, then! Remember to let me know once you arrive in Edelweiss.]

[Of course!]

Layla lay on the couch for a while before dragging her feet to the bathroom for a shower, fully intending to follow her sister's advice and watch a movie later.

At eleven, when Layla was halfway through the movie, her stomach began to twist and knot.