Too late for a second chance (Lila and Dorian)

In previous years, the family photo was always taken on the first day of the New Year. However, this year, due to Lila's absence and Amelie being hospitalized, the tradition was skipped.

No one said anything about it. They simply walked out to the yard together. Behind them, the evening light was dazzling, and the cool breeze stirred the hems of their skirts. Lila pulled out two small photos, about the size of the palm of her hand, one in each of her hands.

Kieran stood close by, his arm loosely draped over her shoulder. Carol held the camera and clicked the shutter a few times in quick succession. Dinner was quiet. Even Noah, who was usually the talkative one, didn't say a word.

After dinner, Lila mentioned that she didn't want to stay the night. Nicole didn't say a word and followed them to the door to see Lila and Kieran off.

The car hadn't gone far when Lila spoke up. "Can you take me to Amelia's place?"

Kieran's grip on the steering wheel tightened involuntarily. He didn't say anything. He just turned the car around. He had thought about the worst-case scenario, that even though Lila no longer blamed his family, she might not want to be with him anymore.

When they arrived at Amelia's building, Lila was about to open the car door when she turned back to look at Kieran. "Kieran."

He lifted his gaze and met hers, his eyes locked on her face as if afraid that if he looked away, he might never get the chance to see her again. Lila didn't look away either. "Do you love me?" she asked bluntly.

"I do," he answered without a moment's hesitation. "I've loved you for a long time," he added quietly.

had only been less than a year ago, it couldn't have been that long. But as soon as his words fell, she unbuckled her seatbelt

legs slightly, settling onto him, her hands pressing on his shoulders. Looking down at him, she said, "Then, let's

married, okay?" she asked without waiting for his response before leaning down

suddenly felt much warmer. Lila could feel his body stiffen for a brief moment. She pulled back after a brief taste, but his large hand gripped the back of her head, turning the tables and making

pulled back just a little, her eyes filled with desire. Kieran, too, was affected, his gaze darker and full of emotions

held each other's gaze for a moment. Her impulse faded, but her hand shook slightly as she reached for the car door. Her movements were swift as she escaped the small, tight space of the driver's seat,

here. I'll go get Nova." In case he didn't know who Nova was,

breath, his emotions settling. "I'll help you get

"It's alright. Amelia's probably

and

up. I don't have much stuff

he could respond,

as if she were

punching in the code.

no reply, so she had boldly contacted Kieran. She knew Lila had been sleeping, and given the circumstances, it

ve