Unconventional help of the archdemon

Seated alongside Janelle and Layla, Emily listened as they discussed Layla's recent wedding, which had taken place a few weeks ago. Despite her best efforts not to reveal her inner turmoil, she struggled to contribute more than two or three words to the conversation. Although she wore a smile, it didn't reach her eyes. 

She wanted to be happy for the woman, who, like herself, had always dreamed of marrying the man who would love her and whom she could love in return. Yet Emily had never imagined that she would have to make a personal sacrifice to help her friend realise that dream. 

"I will go and see if Nathaniel needs me; excuse me." Layla politely bowed to the two women before swiftly making her way towards the room, her focus on the attending guests. 

"Lily?" Janelle called, and Emily turned to look at her. "Did something happen between you and Layla?" 

"What do you mean?" Emily asked cautiously.