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

Harrison's gaze darkened slightly before he nodded. "Fine. In that case, we'll go ahead. Faith, make sure you visit Andy later."

With that, he turned and led his people away.

Faith met his lingering gaze for a moment before looking away.

Once they were gone, she finally turned to Lila. "Thank you."

Even though she knew that this brief moment of defiance would bring an even bigger storm, she was still grateful.

In all these years, this was the first time someone had stood up for her.

And fate had a twisted sense of humor-the person who did was none other than Lila, someone she had once looked down on.

Lila shook her head. "I didn't do it for you. I just can't stand people like Andy. Besides, Ms. Moore, you and I aren't exactly friends."

Not friends?

Faith lowered her gaze and let out a soft chuckle. She nodded, choosing not to say anything more.

Lila gave a small nod in return before walking off with Michael.

Once they were far enough away, Michael finally spoke. "You shouldn't have gotten involved in the Moore family's mess."

"Well, I already did. Besides, I just don't like hearing people talk shit about Kieran," Lila said lightly.

She laughed a little. Michael nearly popped a vein.

"You seriously have a problem. I'm trying to look out for you, and you're out here doing this?"

Frustrated, he turned and stomped off. Lila grinned, then found a seat and settled in as Michael took the stage.

As a brand ambassador, he stood alongside a few executives, going over the product's features and benefits.

Lila rolled her shoulders. The spot where Andy had hit her earlier was starting to ache-a dull, persistent pain that probably meant bruising.

Meanwhile, the event coordinator wasted no time reporting the incident to Cole. It wasn't long before Kieran heard about it too.

Cole watched as Kieran sat in silence, his expression unreadable.

After a moment, he tentatively asked, "Should I inform the Moore family to send Andy back home?"

"If he leaves, are you planning to chase him to Luxford just to teach him a lesson?"

At that, Cole immediately understood.

Kieran scribbled something on a piece of paper and handed it over. "Take this to Faith. Give it to her in front of Harrison and Andy. And make sure to remind her not to show it to anyone."

That evening, when Faith returned to the hotel and opened the door, she found Harrison and Andy sitting on the couch, clearly waiting for her.noveldrama

"You're back late," Andy said. "We've been here forever, and I haven't even had a damn glass of water. Go get me one."

"Andy, she's your sister. Did you already forget what I told you?" Harrison's tone was calm but firm.

Before the words had even settled, Andy shot to his feet, stormed over, and slapped Faith across the face. "You bitch! Do you think you deserve to be my sister?"

Faith staggered back from the force of the hit, barely managing to steady herself.

A bright red handprint immediately swelled on her cheek.

Harrison lifted his gaze slightly, his tone indifferent. "Faith, consider that slap a warning. How many times has the Moore family taught you? No matter where you go, never forget your place. So, let me ask you again, what is your identity?

Faith clenched her teeth and slowly forced the words out. "I am a member of the Moore family. Their honor is my honor. Even if I have to lose face, I must never bring shame to the Moore name."

Harrison gave a slight nod of approval Faith, you've always been the most obedient and sensible child of this generation. As long as you continue to do well, the family will not treat you unfairly."

Faith kept her head lowered, but before she could respond, Andy shoved her. "Uncle Harrison is talking to you. Are you mute?"

The door hadn't been fully closed.

Just then, Cole pushed it open and walked in, arriving just in time to witness the scene. He took two quick strides forward and steadied Faith before she could stumble again.

"Well, isn't this lively?" Cole said with a casual smile as if he hadn't just walked into a room thick with tension.

"Ms. Moore, Mr. Morgan asked me to bring you something."

He handed it over.

Faith took one look at it, and her eyes widened in shock. "This is?"

"Yes. Straight from Mr. Morgan."

Harrison stood up. "What did Mr. Morgan say?"