too late for a second chance novel (Lila and Dorian) novel Chapter 194

Ryan cast a cautious glance at Dorian and gave a small nod, signaling Julian to tread carefully. He tried to hint that Dorian was in no mood to discuss the matter further.

Unfortunately, Julian either missed the cue or lacked the sense to heed it. With indignation, he blurted out, "How could someone with Dorian's acting skills not be chosen? There must be something fishy going on!"

Dorian shot him a cold glare. He couldn't fathom how the company had saddled him with such an oblivious agent. Rowan wasn't one to be influenced by outside forces. Landing a role depended purely on talent, and Dorian knew his own failure had nothing to do with any conspiracy.

It was his own fault for letting Lila throw him off balance.

If he hadn't encountered her at the airport, hadn't heard Michael's taunting remarks that used Lila as leverage against him, or hadn't noticed Michael's audition emulating Lila's habits, Dorian wouldn't have lost his composure.

Julian, however, grew more incensed upon learning that Michael had secured the role. "Everyone knows how talented Dorian is. His acting skills are undeniable. Could it be that Magi Pictures pulled strings through the Morgan Group's deep pockets to give Michael an unfair edge? Everyone's aware of how similar their roles are, and the rivalry between the two companies over resources. It's obvious they threw money at this just to one-up Dorian!"

Julian's voice grew louder with every word, and he seemed increasingly convinced by his own reasoning. He failed to notice Ryan's visible discomfort and hesitations.

Ryan couldn't say if backdoor dealings were involved, but based on their audition performances, it was clear to any observer that Michael had outshone Dorian. He glanced at Dorian, whose expression remained stormy, and tugged at Julian's sleeve. "That's enough. Stop talking."

"Get out!" Dorian snapped, his icy gaze cutting through them.

Ryan awkwardly left the room, and Julian, after a moment's hesitation, seemed to have a sudden idea and followed suit.

…

The next morning, Michael and Lila landed in Northridge City.

"Good thing Mr. Morgan flew back a day earlier. Just imagining being on the same flight as him makes my back ache," Michael remarked, pulling two suitcases as they made their way out of the airport.