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

Vince shook his head. "I don't know. With Mr. Morgan's clear attitude, she should have come to terms with reality by now."

"She's..." Amelia gave a half-hearted smile. "She's in for a tough time. I actually should have advised Lila not to come."

He shook his head. "No matter what happens at this banquet, she should have come with Mr. Morgan."

He meant this would imply that Kieran would have officially acknowledged Lila's identity to everyone in the circle.

Amelia understood the implication of his words. She lowered her gaze and took a sip of the wine in her hand, the sweet taste lingering on her tongue.

Knowing that Kieran had arrived, Martin, who had been waiting for the guests, stood up. The crowd followed him toward the entrance, where they saw Kieran step out of the car, open the door for Lila, and help her out. His movements were gentle, careful, and considerate.

The people who had witnessed how Kieran had shown special care for Lila during her birthday party were even more surprised now. Many had tried to win his favor in various ways, but none had even received a single glance. But now, he was personally opening the door for a woman and helping her with such care?

Once Lila was steady on her feet, Kieran linked his arm with hers. He leaned in slightly and whispered, "Don't be nervous. I'm here."

Lila looked up at him, meeting his gaze momentarily before nodding gently. With Kieran by her side, she didn't believe Pierre would dare to act recklessly. Their intimate gestures, combined with their striking appearances, made them seem like a perfect match.

The smallest gestures would reveal the most about one's heart. His actions didn't go unnoticed by many. The people who observed them immediately knew Lila was of great importance in Kieran's heart.

Only Pierre and Shannon had different reactions-one looked dark and sullen, while the other looked resentful.

Lila followed his lead as they entered.

Once inside, Martin greeted them. "Kieran, it's been a long time since you've visited me."

Kieran nodded slightly. "Mr. Locke Senior, the company has been busy lately. Please forgive me. I've brought a small gift for you."

"You're embarrassing me." Martin then turned his attention to Lila. "And this young lady is?"

From a distance, Amelia smiled

faintly. "Who here doesn't know that Mr. Morgan has a fiancee? This old man is playing dumb-could he be trying to win back some pride for the Botton family?"

Vince smiled helplessly. "Why are you angry? Even if Mr. Locke Senior disapproves of Mr. Morgan's treatment of the Bolton Group, he wouldn't openly say it. After all, for these people, their own interests are the most important.

"The only reason he's upset with the Bolton family is that he's afraid Mr. Morgan will treat them the same way."

She frowned. "If the Bolton family hadn't messed things up, Mr. Morgan wouldn't have done anything."

"Even you can understand that, but these old foxes don't get it."

"Are you insulting me?" She suddenly turned her head, glaring at him.

He looked even more helpless. This fiery temper of hers... Then, he quickly changed the subject. "If Mr. Morgan isn't accompanying Lifa, you should go with her to ensure no one tries anything."

As soon as he said this, he noticed Lila's gaze darken slightly. It was as if she instinctively avoided something.

Kieran also felt her hand tighten on his arm. He lowered his gaze and, out of the corner of his eye, saw Pierre standing on the second floor.

Pierre openly stared at Lila from his elevated position, like a predator ready to strike. His gaze was so blatant, without any concern that someone might notice his intentions.

Kieran's expression remained calm, but a storm was brewing behind his eyes. His smile deepened.noveldrama

"This is my fiancée, Lila Hart," he introduced. "Lila, this is Mr. Locke Senior."

Lila steadied her emotions and maintained her politeness, giving a slight nod. "Hello, Mr. Locke Senior. It's a pleasure to meet you. I've brought a small gift. Please accept it."

She handed him the gift box, but Martin merely glanced at it without reaching out to take it.