Too late for a second chance (Lila and Dorian)

Lila returned to Vermilion Estate and informed Kieran that she'd be heading back to Mapleford tomorrow.

Their relationship had only just begun to deepen, and though Kieran was reluctant to see her leave, he understood he couldn't stand in the way of what she loved.

As for Lila, while she wanted to spend a few more days with him, her eagerness to check on the progress of the elementary school project far outweighed seeing Kieran.

She hadn't even booked her plane tickets yet when Amelia's video call popped up on her screen.

"Wanna hang out tomorrow?" Amelia asked casually.

Lila hesitated for a moment.

"Are you busy? I was thinking of calling Noah and Ruby to join too," Amelia added.

Though Amelie hadn't been gone for long, the family couldn't stay gloomy forever.

She had practically assigned herself the role of the Morgans' mood manager, determined to lift their collective spirits.

"I was planning to head back to the show tomorrow," Lila said carefully.

"To see that celebrity of yours? I saw the teaser for the show. Doesn't seem like you need to stick with them as a manager, right?"

Amelia sounded puzzled. The show revolved around growing vegetables, fruits, and crops a process as slow and patient as the plants themselves.

The crew just filmed the participants working and the gradual progress of the greenery.

It was interesting in its own way-calm and soothing, like a slow-burn reality show.

"It's not about the show. I need to check on the elementary project, see if they've made progress," Lila explained.

nodded in understanding but then rubbed her chin, her face lighting up with

sure everything's under control. But if you're worried about funding, why not stay tomorrow and hang out instead? I'll pitch in two million from my secret stash for

the water

didn't even know I was worth that much!"

mean I can brag

creaked open, and Kieran stepped in, catching her last two sentences. He

froze, her cheeks warming with embarrassment. Joking like this with Amelia was one thing, but having

phone, "Alright, I'll stay with you tomorrow. Everything

respond, Lila ended the call in a flash. Amelia stared at the blank screen for a moment,

What was the rush?

what she

the night sky glittered over

the sound of Kieran coming

were they about to...? Hmm, things seemed to be moving

Amelia's thoughts had already spiraled off into

a shower,"

help, Mrs.

eyes went wide.

shot a glance at Kieran, only to catch the playful smirk tugging at his lips. He

she turned on her heel and hurried

had he

shower, her emotions had

head bowed as he typed out a

but because her feet were still damp, her slippers slipped suddenly on the floor. Losing her balance,

herself, but her hand landed on Kieran's

novel

the bed, with