Before approaching Vince, Lila had already given Jamie a heads-up to find a way to pull Xyla aside. Sure enough, as soon as she walked over, Jamie called out to Xyla, leading her away.

Kieran stayed a few steps behind Lila, just in case she got too caught up in talking and didn't watch her step. This way, he could keep an eye on her while also giving them some space to talk.

Vince glanced at her. "Something on your mind?"

"What's your deal with Ms. Zimmerman?" she asked.

"She's from a well-off family. My uncle introduced us-he says he's getting older and wants me to settle down soon."

Lila nodded. "So... are you two dating?"

"No, we just met a few days ago. We're getting to know each other and seeing if we're compatible."

After hearing that, Lila let out a breath of relief. "Actually, after you left that night, Ame told that young man to-" Before she could finish, a sharp yelp cut through the air. Xyla had slipped and fallen on the stone steps.

"Ms. Zimmerman, are you okay?" Jamie asked, visibly concerned.

Lila had no choice but to pause their conversation as Vince hurried over, helping Xyla sit down on one of the steps. "Where does it hurt?"

apologetically. "I think it's twisted... I don't think I can

you're okay," Vince reassured her. "Are you hurt anywhere

"No."

over and glanced at Amelia, who stood nearby with

shoe and pressed lightly on her ankle. She let out a small gasp.

lip, her voice barely above a whisper. "I'm so sorry. I should've been more careful-I didn't mean to ruin your

calm. "I should've been

after a moment, he added, "I'll realign it. Try to bear

lip to keep from making a sound as he reset her ankle. Her eyes watered slightly, and she looked pitiful. Even after her

the group. "You guys go on ahead. We'll rest here

got it covered. Don't let this ruin your day. We were just tagging along anyway. I saw a sign earlier-there's a cable car station up ahead.

Amelia's. For a

we'll keep going." Then, she patted

they walked off side by side, his expression

the unexpected mishap, the rest of the hike wasn't

Soren, while Amelia pulled Teddy down beside her. "Let's wait a bit before heading back down. I want to see the sunset from up

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255