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?"

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

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

"No."

stood nearby with an

removed Xyla's shoe and pressed lightly on her ankle. She let out a small

her lip, her voice barely above a whisper. "I'm so sorry. I should've been more

calm. "I should've been paying

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

her lower lip to keep from making a sound as he reset her ankle. Her eyes watered

feet and turned to the group. "You guys go on ahead. We'll rest here for

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

lifted his gaze and met Amelia's. For a fleeting second, his

small smile. "In that case, we'll keep going." Then, she patted Matthew on the shoulder.

as they walked off side by

the unexpected mishap, the rest of the hike wasn't dampened. By the time they reached the summit, it was around 2:00 pm. They

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

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