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?"

glass, then Rafael. For a moment, Rafael thought Connor had figured it

not gonna turn down a drink, are you?" Old

me to drink this?"

"Uh..."

would Connor ask that unless

Connor picked up the glass and downed it in one go. He knew something was off. After years in the game, missing something like this would've been

was his turn. He couldn't tell what was in the drink, but it was likely some kind

And then...

thought darkened

swallowing the

stuff was top-notch; anyone else would've been out

gathered around