too late for a second chance novel (Lila and Dorian)

"Kieran, are you just going to let her say whatever she wants?" Dennis demanded.

Kieran lifted his gaze. "Enlighten me—exactly did she get wrong?"

Dennis was momentarily at a loss for words. "Fine. Kieran, sell me the 5% of shares you own, and I'll let this go."

Lila tugged lightly at Kieran's sleeve, but he simply turned his hand over and squeezed hers reassuringly. His cold eyes settled on Dennis. "I'm afraid I'll have to disappoint you, Mr. Moore. I'm quite interested in my investment in Moore Group and have no plans to sell my shares at the moment."

"What?" Dennis glared at him, his face twisting with frustration. "I'll give you one week to think it over. If you're still set on holding onto my company's shares, then our collaboration ends here!"

Then, turning sharply to Faith, he snapped. "Once this partnership is over, you're coming straight back home, you fucking disgrace!"

Dennis shot one last look at Kieran, then at Stefan. "We'll be taking our leave then."

With that, the Moores left in a grand display of indignation. Moses hesitated for a second, casting a glance at Lila before following the rest of them out. Faith didn't leave with them. Instead, she waited until Stefan stood up before bidding farewell and walking out alongside him.

That left only Lila, Nicole, and Kieran in the now-quiet room.

Nicole sighed. "This is all mine and Alfredo's fault. We had no idea that a single deal with Zorland would cause such a mess for Morgan Group and drag you both into it."

Lila immediately rose to her feet, taking Nicole's hand and gently reassuring her. "Aunt Nicole, this has nothing to do with you or Uncle Alfredo. Those people are just jealous of our family's success and looking for excuses to stir up trouble. The Moores obviously came today hoping to use the shares to pressure Kieran into helping Andy or pushing Moses into power.

"They're scared that Ms. Moore will take control and get back at them, so they're trying to use us to suppress her. So, don't worry, Aunt Nicole, everything will be fine."

Nicole was slightly reassured. Since it was already late, she didn't press the conversation any further.

After seeing her off, Lila turned around. "Kieran." His gaze softened as he looked at her.

Spring had passed, but the air still carried the faint scent of peach blossoms. Under the moonlight, her dress swayed gently with the breeze. She stepped closer, wrapping Ker arms around his waist. "It's been a while. Did you miss me?"

Kieran's gaze

was even softer than

the moonlight. "That's what I should be asking you." Then, as if relieved he added, "I have to travel outnoveldrama

town for a few days to owne

You

should take it easy at home, and when I'm back, I'll take you out for a little trip."

"Sounds good! How about a hiking trip? We can invite Ame, Jamie, and the others." Her eyes lit up as all of them happened to be free lately.

He arched his brow, feigning disappointment. "And here I thought I'd get some alone time with my wife. But I should've known that there are other people in your heart."

Lila burst into laughter and pinched the soft skin at his waist. "How about this—I'll spend two days with you first, and then we'll invite them. Does that sound good, Mr. Morgan?"

Kieran, of course, had no complaints. After all, he would follow whatever Lila said.

The next morning, he left early. Lila, for once, slept in. she had intended

to stayin bed a little longer, but Amelia showed up and yanked her out "Get up already! The weather's perfect for a shopping trip.

Lila groaned and pulled Amelia onto the bed with her. "Five more minutes..." With

her eyes still closed, she mumbled, "What have you been up to lately?" When

there was no response, she cracked one eye open.

Amelia smirked. "I've been learning how to manage a company... and looking for

a new guy to have fun with."

"What happened to your last boy toy?"