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

Jackson actually picked up his glass and clinked it against his.

The organizer was completely caught off guard-he never imagined Jackson would toast with him. For a split second, he felt weightless, like he was walking on air.

He'd never realized that the sound of two glasses meeting could be so satisfying.

If only he'd caught this on camera!

He could already imagine it: after tonight, opportunities would start pouring in. The organizer could barely contain his excitement-he was grinning so hard his cheeks hurt.

"Mr. Woods, you're really too kind."

Just having a drink with Jackson was an honor. Clinking glasses? That was on a whole other level.

But honestly, the rest of the dinner was tense-especially for the people from Country M and Amy. You could practically see the steam coming out of their ears.

Everyone at the table understood one thing: whatever Jackson said tonight had to stay in that room. If word got out, chaos would follow.

After everyone left, Jane walked out with Fiona, arms crossed, looking genuinely confused.

"Fiona, what's up with Jackson tonight? Is he trying to get back together with you?” Jane asked, rubbing her chin and squinting. "I mean, wasn't he the one who broke up with you first? Now he just wants you back like nothing happened? Fiona, don't let him off that easy. Seriously, don't spoil him."

Fiona stayed quiet, eyes on the floor as they walked.

When they got back to their suite, the four people who'd been sprawled out earlier had disappeared into their own rooms. The mess was gone, and someone had even lit Fiona's favorite scented candle.

they sobered up and remembered how

"Alright, I'm heading out. Get some sleep,

nodded and slipped into her

window was cracked open, and the night air was chilly. She blew out the candle, poured a little water on it to stop the

into bed, finally ready to relax. But then, a

It wasn't hers.

it was a scent she knew by

herself a glass of warm

you planning on hiding in

Silence.

took her glass to the

she felt arms wrap around her waist from behind, firm but gentle, carrying an

the crook of her neck, breathing

"Fiona."

That voice-so familiar.

from his arms without a word,

to keep Ms. Gregory company tonight?" she said, not

don't be

back, and sipped her water

the cup.

Standing there was Jackson.

"Any updates?" Fiona asked.