Too late for a second chance (Lila and Dorian)

Chapter 197

Lila chuckled softly. With all the commotion, there was no way Dorian didn't know what was happening. If he wanted to ride this wave of attention, he'd have to deal with the risks that came with it.

But this time, she was wrong.

Dorian really had no clue about the online chaos. He'd been in a foul mood for days, and the stress and constant traveling had taken a toll on him. After an angry outburst at the office, he'd gone home, downed some alcohol, and passed out, only to wake up later with a fever that left him miserable.

When Ryan and Ethan rushed over to deliver the news, Dorian was still burning up.

As Ethan nervously filled him in, Dorian let out a bitter laugh, though his gaze turned razor-sharp as it shifted to his agent. It was the kind of look that could slice through steel.

Ryan stammered, visibly trembling. "Dorian, I swear I was just trying to help you. I didn't think the fans would escalate things and go after the director. I really didn't think it would get this bad. I'm sorry... I'm so sorry..."

Dorian didn't bother to hear him out. "Idiot! If this mess isn't cleaned up, none of you are walking away from this unscathed. Get lost now!"

His voice was low, but it carried the weight of venom, wrapping around the room like a snake ready to strike. Ryan and Ethan both felt like they were in immediate danger.

around, none of this

really have to

already fled, leaving Ethan standing a few steps away, looking as though he wanted to vanish into thin air. The silence was suffocating, and he didn't dare

situation, but the damage had already been done. Too many

for his outstanding performance without mentioning Dorian by name and congratulated him on landing the role. However, every word felt like a slap to Dorian's

balled his fists. His knuckles turned white

caught his eye. It was a post from Joyce Group's Citrus Media, officially announcing the leads for the drama

looks, sharp wit, and natural charm, she had skyrocketed to

low-budget drama. He had no major awards and barely qualified as an A-lister, nowhere

to him. He shot up from the couch, hurling his phone across the room. It shattered at Ethan's feet,

as the lead for that film.

completely transformed the film's prestige. Joyce

was handed to him on a silver platter.

look in Dorian's