Flora’s Guide to a Second Chance at Love and Life

As soon as Connor, the big shot, took his seat, the crowd around him scattered. Every now and then, a bold girl would try to catch his eye, but one look from him and they'd lose their nerve, slinking away. "Man, sitting here alone must be boring," Rafael said, strolling over and plopping down next to Connor. Behind him were Louie, Howell, Old Pete, and a few others.

"With Flora not around, you can drop the act. Why not have some fun?" Rafael suggested, throwing an arm over Connor's shoulder and flashing a roguish grin. His silver earring sparkled in the dim light. "We won't tell her."

"Hands off."

Connor found the idea of 'fun' incredibly shallow. He should be grateful he was just Flora's friend. Otherwise, Rafael's hand would be broken.

Rafael narrowed his eyes. A bunch of girls had tried their luck earlier, all top-tier picks, and Connor hadn't even glanced their way. It seemed he wasn't driven by base desires after all.

Old Pete gave Rafael a nudge, signaling him to act.

Rafael removed his arm from Connor's shoulder and casually picked up a drink. "How about a drink?"

Rafael. For a

not gonna turn down a drink, are you?"

want me

"Uh..."

Pete hesitated. Why would Connor ask that

downed it in one go. He knew something was off. After years in

Empire Base, and now it was his turn. He couldn't tell what was in the drink, but it was likely some kind of test. For Flora, he

And then...

thought darkened his

minutes after swallowing

leader of Empire Base. This stuff was top-notch; anyone else would've been out cold immediately. He had even increased the dose, yet Connor

gathered around a computer to watch the