Layla was touched both emotionally and physically by Oleg's response, but the weight that the word "friend" carried,  it was like a hammer to the brunette's expectations.<br/><em>I'm so stupid.  I'll never be more than a friend to him.  </em>Layla felt like crying, as she quickly walked away with Milla.<br/><br/>Then in front of Layla's parents, all she wanted to do was try to get past her crushed feelings.<br/>"I'd love that Mr. Parker." Layla said elated that she wouldn't have to pitch why coming with Milla was a good idea.   Milla's parents were always really nice to her, and Layla often felt like a second daughter when they spent time together - the parents showing interest in her activities.<br/>"Maybe I could bake a batch of cookies." Layla offered, remembering the ones she had ruined earlier before anyone else had gotten a chance to eat them - anyone other than the principal of course.   "I could cook Milla's favorite batch of cookies   - Chocolate chip are her favorites." she said quickly, showing she knew.<br/>