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.

moved around to the front, gently shifting Nova to the side. She was about to sit next to Kieran but hesitated—then, instead, settled

hand on her lower back to steady her, his touch

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

of his eye, Kieran caught a glimpse of the sunflowers in

returned to her. "Do you know what sunflowers

question. She suddenly recalled her earlier conversation with

silent love or love that has never been spoken out

people

meanings when

They were

shape, scent,

asked if it

nodded slightly, meeting his gaze.

the night he

had asked

Did she love him?

Unspoken love...

struck, and she laughed softly. So that was what this

love through actions rather than words, yet he wanted her to

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

A little adorable, really.

she smiled, Kieran's emotions grew more

his fingers against her soft,

back, Lila bit him—not too hard, just

Kieran didn't even flinch.

let go, faint teeth marks still visible on