Too late for a second chance (Lila and Dorian)

By the time the florist finished wrapping the bouquet, Lila stepped out of the shop, looking a bit down. "I just realized... I don't even know what kind of flowers Kieran likes. So, I just picked something I liked."

Her voice softened with self-reproach. "Do you think maybe I haven't paid enough attention to him? When I get home, I'm going to make an effort to learn more about what he likes!"

Amelia smiled. "Honestly? I don't think it's you. Uncle Kieran never really shows his preferences. Well, except when it comes to you."

The last part made Lila pause, eyes widening slightly before a soft, glowing smile spread across her face. she glanced down at the bouquet in her arms, and the tenderness in her expression deepened.

...

By evening, she had parted ways with Amelia and returned to Hilltop Heights. On the way, she texted Cole to ask when Kieran might be home.

Cole replied almost instantly, "Mr. Morgan left the office this afternoon and hasn't returned since."

Lila: "You're not with him?"

Cole: "No, he went out alone today. Didn't take me with him."

could be, another message popped up. "Want me to call and

I'll ask him

Kieran, but no one picked up. In all their time together, this was the first time

called again. The phone rang

recognized it was Landon, and the background was

a bit too

home. If you're

can

come pick him

still a little puzzled. "Hold on, I'll be there soon." Then, she

arrived outside the bar, she ran into Michael, who was struggling to support someone clearly

Michael was

pick someone up,"

Kieran out the door. He even waved at her with his free hand.

it, hang on! I'll find

Matthew. "Seriously, Michael? You're dragging him into your bad habits now?" With a quick sigh, she pulled a small