Too late for a second chance (Lila and Dorian)

Water continued to drip slowly from the black umbrella, landing on the mat below, forming a darkened patch.

Vince lowered his head, watching the droplets fall one by one, as if each drop struck his heart, sending out ripples.

The surface would settle for a moment, only for another drop to fall, creating new ripples-rising and falling, endless and unresolved.

Hearing the elevator doors open, he lifted his gaze. His eyes were as deep and heavy as the night.

"Ame..." His voice was hoarse, likely from not speaking for a long time.

Amelia frowned. "Mr. Lane, it's inappropriate for you to call me that."

"Can we talk?"

"I don't have time."

She pressed her fingerprint to unlock the door, but it was clear she had no intention of inviting him in.

Vince reached out, stopping the door from closing.

"Just five minutes."

Seeing the disinterest in her expression, he changed his approach. "Two minutes."

Amelia glanced down at her watch. "Two minutes. Speak."

Vince took a deep breath, his gaze sincere.

"I've been thinking a lot about this engagement. Of course, the development of the family business is important, but if even at my level, I can't control my own marriage, then what's the point of this status and power?

"You asked me if I love you. I've asked myself that question over and over, and I

sound of the elevator doors

looked up and locked eyes with a familiar face. The other person was clearly just as

are you

glancing at her drunk friend and

friend had too much to drink. When I asked her what floor we were on, she mumbled a bunch of

at.

don't remember you living here. Are you visiting

Vince turned back

timer on her phone, which had already passed four

shake, then withdrew her gaze and shut the

"Did I

sound and

to your

stop moving

sentence, her completely drunk friend clung to her

an octopus.

"Just one more drink!"

go of me, I can't move like this.

patiently, then turned back to Vince

distraction, her friend's swaying almost made her stumble. "Careful." Vince

flushed from alcohol. "Thank you, Vince." "I'll help you

at the now tightly shut door before pressing the elevator

against the door,

opened the door and peeked

hallway was empty,

the damn

the carpet,