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

Lila shook her head as she watched the Lane siblings stroll over. "Do you know

that girl?"

"I've seen her before, but I had no idea which family she's from," Kieran responded, pulling out a thermos from his backpack and handing it to her.

Lila took a couple of sips, but her mind was still on Vince and this whole blind date situation. Kieran reached out and pinched her cheek lightly. "Relax. Let's just wait and see."

Lila gazed up at him. she knew he was sharp, but she hadn't expected him to pick up on her thoughts so quickly. Noticing the surprise in her eyes, he arched his brow, his expression calm and nonchalant, as if everything was well within his control.

His ease was contagious, and Lila found herself smiling. Instead of overanalyzing things, maybe she should just ask Vince directly. With that thought settled, she suddenly felt much lighter.

Meanwhile, Teddy stood among the group, his gaze drifting toward the approaching pair. On the surface, they looked like a perfect match. The young woman was elegant and poised, and the man seemed wise and kind.

He thought about the man's achievements and couldn't help but do a quick comparison. Would he be able to reach-or even surpass him in a few years? The answer was obvious. Not a chance.

A government-backed researcher and an entertainment industry celebrity were in completely different leagues. And to top it all off, the guy wasn't just smart-he was good-looking too.

Jamie said something, and the man beside her leaned in slightly to listen. a soft smile spread across his face, and even the way he adjusted his glasses looked effortlessly charming.

Amelia nudged him. "What's wrong? Feeling insecure?"

Teddy scoffed. "Anyone with eyes can see there's no competition here. Besides, I'm confident, not delusional."

"Well, when we get back, I'll find you the best scripts. With Lila and me backing you, we'll make you the youngest, best actor."

"It's different." No matter how

successful he became in his field, the weight and prestige of their careers were just different. Amelia was about to argue when Jamie and her companion finally reached them.

With a smile, Jamie introduced him to the group. "This is Soren Smith, my childhood friend."

Then, she went on to introduce him to everyone, and Soren greeted everyone with a warm and polite demeanor. Even his voice carried that same composed elegance.

As soon as his words fell, Vince walked over. Jamie had invited him, but when she turned to look at him, she was clearly confused. After all, she hadn't expected him to show up with company.

Jamie silently questioned him with a look, but Vince only responded with a slight nod before turning back to the group. "This is Xyla Zimmerman. We had dinner plans, but since Jamie invited me out here, I thought I'd bring her along. The more, the merrier, right? I hope it's okay."

Since Lila had been the one to organize the trip, she took the lead with a friendly smile. "Of course. We're all friends here. Welcome, Ms. Zimmerman—I'm Lila."

Xyla tilted her head slightly and smiled. "You're the assistant director for Mr. Grant's upcoming show, right? I saw the trailer, and it looks amazing! You're really talented!"

Her compliment seemed sincere, but as her gaze drifted toward Teddy, a spark of excitement

flickered in her eyes. "Hi, Teddy met

actually begged Vince to bring me along because I had heard you would be here! My sister is a huge fan-could I get an autograph for her?

"I'm a fan too! You were incredible in that historical drama!"

Teddy scratched the back of his head, looking a little embarrassed. "Really? Sure, I can give you my autograph."

Jamie glanced over but didn't say a word. She just walked over to stand next to Lila. With introductions out of the way, the group made their way up the mountain.

Xyla stuck close to Vince, lowering her voice as they walked. "I didn't expect Mr. Morgan to be here either. Won't we be interrupting his time with his wife? Will he be upset?"

"Don't worry, Mr. Morgan isn't as intimidating as everyone thinks. He's actually..."noveldrama