too late for a second chance novel (Lila and Dorian) novel Chapter 427

Lila's words weighed on Kieran's heart like a boulder.

He wanted to refuse, but the Morgan family owed her two of her parents' lives. What right did he have to make her stay?

Kieran followed Lila's gaze to the stage, where Matthew was calmly following the staff's instructions. He presented a quiet and gentle demeanor.

That gentleness was so similar to Bryce's.

"Lila." Kieran finally spoke, his voice hoarse and dry.

But what could he say? How should he say it?

In the end, he simply said, "I don't want to."

Lila's heart ached unbearably, caught off guard by his response. But she understood—he felt that the Morgan family owed her.

Her lips curled into a faint smile, but no matter how hard she tried, it was still bitter.

"You don't need to feel guilty toward me. What your elders said is true—what happened to my parents had nothing to do with you. The grudges between our families don't concern you."

Lila's eyes fixed on him, her tone resolute as she continued, "You don't have to care about these things, but I am different. I must make sure the murderers who took my parents' lives pay for their crimes."

This was the unbridgeable gap between them.

Kieran raised his hand, wanting to pull her into his arms. But in the end, his raised hand simply landed on hers.

Lila didn't pull away, allowing him to hold her hand. Her cool fingertips absorbed the warmth of his palm.

She lowered her eyes to look at the diamond ring on his finger, still as brilliant as ever.

This marriage was even shorter than she had expected.

After a long silence, Kieran finally asked, "Give me one week, okay?"

"Ms. Clemence, long time no see." Liam spoke first.

"Long time no see," Ruby replied with a smile. Noticing Lila's low spirits, she didn't continue the earlier topic.

While they chatted, Lila had no desire to join in. She simply held the glass of warm water a staff member had poured for her, taking small sips.

After the event ended, Lila didn't return to the company with Liam and Matthew. Instead, she went straight back to the apartment on Milton Street.

The moment she opened the door, Nova came prancing toward her. She wasn't afraid of strangers at all. She was a little fluffy ball that could melt anyone's heart.

Lila's heavy mood lightened a little.

She changed her shoes, bent down, and scooped Nova into her arms.

"Are you hungry? Mommy will get you some food."