_Leah's POV_

I noticed the slight frown creasing my forehead the moment Tariq returned to the table. He sat down, his gaze soft with concern, reaching out to take my hand again. “Leah? Is everything okay?” he asked, his voice gentle.

My heart hammered in my chest. I tried to compose myself, but my thoughts were spinning too fast, still consumed by the message I had just seen. I forced a small smile, my voice betraying none of the turmoil inside me. “Yeah, everything is fine. Just… a little tired,” I lied, lowering my gaze to avoid his penetrating stare.

Tariq studied me for a moment, then shrugged, seemingly satisfied...