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

Today, Lila had applied makeup to cover the exhaustion on her face, although her eyes were slightly red from lack of sleep, giving them a bunny-like appearance.

The usually composed Kieran paused momentarily, and his gaze shifted to her fair

arm.

"Does your wrist still hurt?"

She raised her hand. "It's fine now. You massaged it for so long yesterday; the muscles are all relaxed."

"There's an art exhibition overseas next week. If you're free, I'd like to take you along."

He suggested it to help her unwind and relax.

"Next week?" She tilted her head, thinking for a moment before she hesitated. "That depends on the progress of the Joyce Group project. I probably won't have time."

He chuckled softly. "We'll wait for the next time then."

"Okay. Just let me know in advance next time. I'll make time for it.

"If there's nothing else, I'll head to the office now. Drive safe." Her voice was light and playful with a hint of youthful charm.

He nodded and drove off. But as he drove away, it took a moment for Lila to process what had just happened. Kieran... He probably wanted to say something, didn't he?

She rubbed her temple, deciding to ask him later when she got home. As she entered her office, she was surprised to find Teddy there.

It had been about ten days since they last met, and he seemed a little darker in complexion.

"You're finally finished with the variety show recording. Why aren't you taking a few days off?" Lila raised an eyebrow.

"Ms. Hart," Teddy whispered. "I got some news early this morning and came straight to look for you."

Seeing her confused, he handed her his phone. "Take a look."

Lila glanced at the headline-"Former Popular Star Now Fallen and Imprisoned."noveldrama

It was a typical marketing headline, and beneath it was a close-up photo of Zara.

Lila suddenly recalled Dorian's words from yesterday he wouldn't let Zara appear in front of her again. Her gaze lingered on the phone momentarily, and she was momentarily speechless.

"The news says her company evaded taxes and exploited employees," Teddy said. His expression grew complicated.

"I used to like her, but she actually pushed you and me down, and her

intentions..." He trailed off, leaving the rest unsaid.

Lila knew that Teddy came from a loving family, and he was pure-hearted. Even though he knew Zara was at fault, he couldn't bring himself to use harsh words against someone he had once admired.

He sighed softly. "At least it's officially over now. It's like karma. Evil begets evil."

"Don't think too much about it. Rest up. I've arranged a good acting coach for you. You and Jamie should focus on learning well so that next time, you can get the best supporting role award."

"The company will also arrange some gigs. Your performance in the variety show was great, and endorsement deals are already flooding in. I'll see if there's a good fit and get one for you."

She shifted the topic and began reviewing documents on her desk, calmly discussing matters with him. Just as she finished speaking, her phone chimed with a new friend request with a message that read: "Lita, Zara won't appear around you anymore. Can we meet?"

The message made her feel uneasy, as though eyes were watching her from

behind. She blocked the account without hesitation.

That Saturday, Lila received a message from Owen of the Joyce Group, telling her

that the "City of Blossoms" auditions would begin next Tuesday.

The male and female leads were already decided, and aside from the roles of Jamie and Teddy, 11 other roles were left to be cast. Many people would be coming for the auditions, and the casting process was expected to take about ten days.

She replied to the message and then collapsed onto the couch.

Since Dorian sent her that one message, he hadn't contacted her again. But the

longer the silence, the more uneasy Lila felt.

He wasn't someone who would give up this easily, especially after he so mercilessly cast Zara aside.