too late for a second chance novel (Lila and Dorian) novel Chapter 400

Gordon Klime was a senior employee of 20 years at the Morgan Group. What would happen if they fired him? Cole could only wonder.

In the afternoon, Kieran left the office early and went straight to the Morgan residence. Frances and Amelie were not home yet. Ruby hung around, and Noah was home.

Nicole watched the three younger members having fun at home. Holding a poker card, Noah flinched from Nicole's gaze. He warned her, "Stop peeking at my hand! You're gonna help your daughter win the game, aren't you? It's like she's your kid, and I'm not!"

Nicole was annoyed at Noah's snarkiness. "Since Ruby's here today, don't play dirty. Lila has never cheated, by the way."

Ruby warmly suggested, "Why don't we play Bridge so Nicole can play too?"

Noah glanced at her. "Lila doesn't know how to play Bridge. Are you trying to give her a hard time?"

"Stop the nonsense, Noah. I'm sure Ms. Clemence didn't mean it that way." Lila jumped at Noah's unnecessary hostility. She knew Noah was on her side, but at the same time, Ruby meant no harm.

Her experience with Shannon made her wary, but she had no good reason to hurt Ruby if Ruby did not plan to hurt her.

Nicole smacked her son on the back of his head. "You little rascal! Watch your mouth!"

Ruby had a confused and blank look, the first time Lila had seen such an expression on her face.

In all the times she met Ruby, Ruby always carried herself with grace and poise to a fault. She was never able to tell apart Ruby's emotions from her expression.

"Ms. Clemence, don't take that nonsense to heart. We're used to joking around. That's why you hear a lot of nonsense when we're at home. Please don't take it too personally."

Lila turned around and saw Kieran entering the house. Sensing the awkward air, he asked, "What's wrong?"

Lila had to credit Ruby for staying graceful and resolving the awkward situation. Kieran walked up to Lila, grabbed a throw, and draped it over her shoulders.

She stole a glance at Ruby, who happened to be looking at her. Ruby's eyes were twinkling. At the same time, Noah had grabbed another throw and stuffed it into Ruby's arms.

Lila saw Ruby holding onto the throw softly. Ruby said to Noah softly, "Thanks."

Lila finally looked away, weighed down by the guilt that she had somehow robbed Ruby of her happiness.

Knowing Lila wasn't in a good mood, Kieran placed an arm around her shoulder and took his seat. "Did Noah bully you today?"

Inching closer, he whispered into her ear, "Do I get a reward if I win the game for you, Mrs. Morgan?"