Too late for a second chance (Lila and Dorian)

Chapter 193

Lila sat quietly, watching as Dorian's performance faltered on stage. His delivery lacked emotion, his presence off-kilter—a stark contrast to his usual charisma.

Michael, seated beside her, finished his quip and turned to glance at her, expecting a response. What he saw instead was someone entirely calm, her gaze steady and detached. Her long lashes fluttered with each blink, but her eyes betrayed no emotion.

To anyone watching, it would seem as if the man on stage were a complete stranger.

Dorian himself realized something was wrong. When he stepped off the stage, his movements were unsteady, his confidence shattered.

He knew.

This role wouldn't be his.

His assistant rushed over, concern etched on their face. "Mr. Blake, are you alright?"

Dorian ignored the question, his eyes scanning the room until they landed on Lila's now-empty seat.

His fists clenched tightly at his sides. Throughout Michael's audition, Dorian had seen traces of Lila's guidance in every movement, every nuanced expression. She had shaped Michael's performance-those habits were unmistakably hers. Rage flared within him. She had guided him for five years he knew her habits better than anyone.

supposed grudge, he wouldn't have been distracted, and this role would have

glanced at his expression and dared not say another word. He could

with Michael, and an alarm bell instantly went off in his mind. However, he couldn't stop Dorian,

and grabbed Lila by the shoulders. "Is this

in pain and immediately pushed him away, her expression turning

quickly stepped between them, his usual play demeanor shifting into mockery.

you

out just

win awards with such bad acting? Don't tell me you relied on Lila to help you

hit Dorian right where

beast. "If you want to get back at me, there has to be

him, her lips

here. Let's go." She tugged at Michael's arm

you could go?" Dorian lunged forward, but Michael deftly blocked his

anymore." Michael

started to move, Michael