Too late for a second chance (Lila and Dorian)

Kieran gestured with his hand. "Put them over there."

Cindy turned to look. It was a small table in the dining area, a spot that wasn't very noticeable.

After her shower, Lila leaned against the staircase railing and spotted Kieran sitting on the couch, staring into space. Her expression softened.

As she walked downstairs, Cindy approached her and lowered her voice. She told Lila that Kieran had reacted a little unusually when she had given him the flower earlier.

Lila frowned slightly.

Did Cole get it wrong? Does Kieran not like sunflowers?

"Does he not like them?" she asked.

Cindy shook her head. "I'm not sure... but I think maybe he's just exhausted."

Lila glanced over at Kieran, still sitting motionless. That explanation seemed reasonable enough.

She nodded. "Got it. Don't worry, I'll check on him."

Slowing her steps, she walked over and leaned down from behind the couch, wrapping her arms around Kieran's neck.

Her voice was light and playful. "Mr. Morgan, what are you daydreaming about all alone?"

The soft scent of jasmine surrounded him, making Kieran pause for a moment.

He reached up, his fingers brushing against her slender wrist. "Lila."

His voice was as deep and rich as always, but tonight, there was something colder in it, like the quiet chill of the night.

She was about to sit next to Kieran but hesitated—then, instead, settled onto

lower back to steady her, his touch firm but careful as if worried she might lose her

neck, her gaze warm. "You've been working hard lately. Once you're done, how about we take a couple of days

Kieran caught a glimpse

to her. "Do you

question. She suddenly recalled her earlier conversation with

that has never

most people didn't

meanings when choosing

were usually drawn

shape, scent,

asked if it wasn't on

nodded slightly, meeting his gaze.

the night he got de

had asked her if she

Did she love him?

Unspoken love...

struck, and she laughed softly. So that was what

love through actions rather

she thought about it, he was like a child starved for affection, asking for love in

A little adorable, really.

Kieran's

lifted his hand, brushing his fingers against her soft,

could pull back, Lila bit him—not too hard, just

Kieran didn't even flinch.

that, she let go, faint teeth marks