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.

him instead of clinging to her supposed

and dared not say another word. He could only quicken his pace to keep

waiting for a car outside with Michael, and an alarm bell instantly went off in his mind. However, he couldn't stop Dorian, who was already storming

grabbed Lila by the shoulders. "Is

Lila winced in pain and immediately pushed him away, her expression turning

quickly stepped between them, his usual play demeanor shifting into

when you can't

just because

bad acting? Don't tell me you relied on Lila to help you interpret

words hit Dorian right where it

"If you want to

then. She glanced at him, her lips curling into a brief, scornful smile. "Get back at you? You're

car's here. Let's go." She tugged at Michael's arm and turned to

there! Did I say you could go?" Dorian lunged forward, but Michael deftly

you anymore." Michael took

move, Michael rolled down the