Too late for a second chance (Lila and Dorian)

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?"

it's twisted...

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

"No."

nearby with an unreadable expression. "How bad is it?" she asked

pressed lightly on her ankle. She let out

so sorry. I should've been more careful-I

calm. "I should've been

moment, he added, "I'll

biting down on her lower lip to keep from making a sound as he reset her ankle. Her

and turned to the group. "You guys go on ahead. We'll

should-"Lila started, but Vince cut her off. "I've got it covered. Don't let this ruin your day. We were just

met Amelia's. For

that case, we'll keep going."

as they walked off side by side, his expression

continuing up the trail. Despite the unexpected mishap, the rest of the hike wasn't dampened. By the

"Let's wait a bit before heading back down. I want to see the sunset from