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.

side. She was about to

her, his touch firm but careful as if worried she

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

Kieran caught a glimpse of the sunflowers

gaze returned to her. "Do you know

that question. She suddenly recalled her earlier

love or love that has never been spoken

most people

meanings when choosing

were

shape, scent, or

asked if

meeting his gaze. Then, suddenly,

night he got

night he had asked

Did she love him?

Unspoken love...

she laughed softly. So that was what this

always been the type to show love through actions rather than words, yet he wanted her

a child starved for affection, asking for love in such a

A little adorable, really.

smiled, Kieran's emotions

lifted his hand, brushing his fingers against her

he could pull back, Lila bit him—not

Kieran didn't even flinch.

go, faint teeth marks still visible on