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.

"Looks like they sobered

"Alright, I'm heading out.

and slipped into her

the night air was chilly. She blew out the candle, poured a

into bed, finally ready

It wasn't hers.

it was a scent she

poured herself a glass of warm water, and leaned against

on hiding

Silence.

push. She just took her glass to the sofa, curled up, and let herself sink into the

moment later, she felt arms wrap around her waist from behind, firm but gentle, carrying an energy that was both restrained

in the crook of

"Fiona."

That voice-so familiar.

wasn't ready to forgive him. She pulled away from his arms without a word, crossed

you have to keep Ms. Gregory company

don't be

let out a short laugh, leaned back, and sipped

the cup.

Standing there was Jackson.

"Any updates?" Fiona asked.