Too late for a second chance (Lila and Dorian)

Chapter 453

Amelia glanced at Lila, who shook her head.

She didn't know where Noah was either.

"Maybe he got delayed on the way. It's not like the party's started yet. Come on, let's just hang out for now," Amelia suggested.

She ushered everyone toward the center of the room. Ruby smiled and let the matter drop, moving to join the group.

The conversation flowed easily as everyone settled in. This was Lila's first time seeing Ruby since she'd learned the full story, and she couldn't help but pay her a little extra attention.

Ruby remained as composed as ever, her warm, polite demeanor intact. A faint smile graced her lips, never faltering as she engaged with the group.

Sometimes, she joined the conversation wholeheartedly, other times, she simply skimmed the surface.

20 minutes passed, and the gathering officially began. Still, there was no sign of Noah.

Ruby's expression remained unchanged, calm, and unbothered, but Amelia's irritation was obvious.

What was the point of all this if the main person she'd planned it for wasn't even here?

Finally, she stood up abruptly. "I'll step out for a bit," she announced.

Lila didn't need to ask to know what she was about to do. Amelia was going to call Noah and figure out what was going on.

But just as Amelia reached for the door handle, it swung open, and Noah walked in.

"Why are you so late?" Amelia asked, her annoyance clear.

"Got held up on the way," Noah answered casually.

usual unruly air. His once-white hair, now dyed black since Amelie's passing, though the rebelliousness in his

room, it landed on Lila's glass,

got a sensitive stomach. Don't

Lila said quickly. "It's just

he turned toward

not sleeping well?" Ruby asked gently, her

concern.

busy with training," Noah replied, brushing off the question with a dismissive

But Lila knew better.

Amelie's passing had taken a heavy toll on him.

he didn't stay

stood. "Feels stuffy in here.

party going and didn't want

hand, gently stopping her.

thought that a little fun wouldn't hurt, everyone needed to relax eventually.

environment,

hesitated for a moment, but ultimately didn't

a few minutes, he walked back into the

we play a game?"

his voice showing a faint spark of

or Dare?" Amelia

bit outdated?" one of

smirking. "Got something better?

his head awkwardly, clearly having no backup plan.

game began. After a few rounds of

lit up instantly.

moment before responding calmly,