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

"Mr. Atticus, are you alright?" Orla's voice was sweet but tinged with genuine concern. "The board members were just venting because they're still upset. Don't take it to heart."

Her words brought back the sting of the board president's harsh criticism, deepening Mr. Atticus's scowl.

"This whole mess, it's all Flora's fault. If it weren't for her, none of this would have happened..." Orla's brows knitted in frustration, clearly defending Mr. Atticus.

"Had we known Flora's true identity sooner, we could've been prepared." Orla added, her eyes flicking over to Selene deliberately. "Selene, you seemed pretty close with Flora. Didn't you know anything?" With a few pointed words, Orla shifted the blame directly onto Selene.

The atmosphere tensed immediately.

Indeed, Selene and Flora did seem close. On the island, Flora had driven everyone away except for Selene.

No one had thought much of it before, but now Orla's words brought everything into sharp focus.

So Selene knew from the start that Flora was the woman from the island and let them make fools of themselves?

This realization turned their gazes towards Selene cold and accusing. Just as Orla said, if Selene had warned them, they could've avoided the embarrassment.

Mr. Atticus's voice was thick with restrained anger as he addressed Selene, "Selene, I'm asking you again, did you know about Flora's identity all along? Don't even think about lying to me."

He didn't need to prompt her; Selene wasn't one to lie.

She had her pride.

stares, Selene

Her admission was clear.

smile broadened in

at Selene, their eyes burning

anger twisted

Fine.

Very well.

Perfect.

been under his wing since she

ago, and he

his knowledge

was

with me to my

Atticus strode off, leading

office, while

"Did I say something wrong? He looks really mad. Selene won't

did this to herself by being untrustworthy," someone

still looked

Just then,