too late for a second chance novel (Lila and Dorian) novel Chapter 402

Kieran reached over and adjusted the blanket that had slipped off Lila's shoulders. "Staying here tonight works too. It's only two days until New Year, and we'll probably need to return here tomorrow anyway."

Over the past few days, the Morgan residence had steadily grown busier with visitors. This was usually the time of year when the younger generation began gathering here for the holiday season.

Lila glanced up. "What about Aunt Jasmine and Bryce?"

Nicole answered before anyone else had the chance. "They'll be here tomorrow afternoon. You and Noah can go pick them up."

Jasmine Morgan and her son, Bryce Robinett, hadn't been around much in recent years because of their overseas business ventures.

They had originally planned to return earlier when they heard about Lila and Kieran's marriage.

However, with no wedding scheduled immediately and complications with their company, their trip home had been delayed until the end of the year.

Hearing this, Lila nodded, her expression softening into a smile.

"Sounds good. The last time Aunt Jasmine and Bryce came back was midsummer, I think. They've been away much longer than usual this time."

Kieran turned slightly to look at her, his eyes sparkling with undisguised delight.

On the table, the scattered playing cards lay in a messy pile. Kieran's long fingers began gathering them one by one, methodically stacking them into a neat pile.

His movements were unhurried, almost like something from an old film, and even his fingertips seemed to carry the weight of the emotions he was carefully holding back.

Sensing the subtle shift in his mood, Lila glanced toward the staircase.

Ruby and Noah still hadn't come back down.

"I'll go check on them—"

Before she could stand, Kieran gently pressed her shoulder. Then, reaching for the glass of warm water Carol had just poured, he handed it to her.

"Don't worry about them. Why don't you think about what gifts to prepare for Jasmine and Bryce instead?" he suggested softly.

"You're right, I almost forgot about that," Lila said, patting her forehead with a small sigh.

"It's just that Aunt Jasmine and Bryce always bring such expensive gifts, and I have no idea what would feel appropriate to give them in return."