Flora’s Guide to a Second Chance at Love and Life

Tyler paused halfway to the car, his deep eyes locking onto her with curiosity. Mikey nudged him inside, then turned to Fiona with a puzzled expression. "Boss, got anything else on your plate? We can tackle it together, and then maybe grab some food." "I'm skipping dinner with you guys," Fiona said with a sly smile, a cute dimple popping up as she added, "Hanging out with you is just so dull."

She waved her smartphone, and Mikey instantly caught on to her game. The boss had a weakness: she was a total sucker for good looks!

"Hey, boss, I'm not too shabby, right? I think I clean up pretty nicely!" Mikey chimed in, a bit baffled as to why Fiona never seemed to swoon over him.

"You?" Fiona gave him a once-over, then decided against deflating his ego. She sighed and gave his shoulder a reassuring pat. "Confidence is key, my friend."

Mikey: "..." Well, damn.

"Boss, that Jackson guy isn't exactly Mr. Easygoing. Plus, he's got some serious, hidden connections. Just be careful and don't get too chummy with him," Mikey advised, unable to shake his unease about Jackson. "Relax, I've got it under control," Fiona chuckled.

"And what does 'under control' mean exactly?" Mikey pressed.

"Hmm..." Fiona mused, touching her chin thoughtfully. "Let's just say, no bold moves until I'm of age!"

Mikey's expression said it all-he was not surprised.

Worried that further conversation might give him a heart attack, Mikey zipped it, hopped into the driver's seat, and hit the gas.

Through the rearview mirror, Tyler watched the girl standing by the roadside, casually fiddling with her phone. Her figure gradually shrank into the distance until he finally looked away.

...

True to his word, Jackson showed up exactly twenty minutes later. Fiona had barely gotten into her novel when he arrived.

"Over here, bro!" Fiona waved enthusiastically.

Jackson strode over, tall and

commanding, with legs so long and

powerful he seemed like he wand

crafted by divine hands-flawless.

"It's getting chilly. Don't skimp on

layers," Jackson said, handing here to thermos. "There're some sweet?

dates inside."

"Thanks, bro," Fiona replied with a grin. "But I'm not really in the mood right now."

Jackson didn't press, simply holding onto the thermos himself.

"What are you in the mood to eat?" he asked, his tone casual, not probing into whom Fiona had met or mentioning Carla.noveldrama

"How about Thai?" Fiona suggested after a moment's thought.

"Sounds good." Jackson nodded, leading her to a nearby Thai place known for its tasty fare.

As soon as they walked in, the restaurant owner hurried over, all respectful. "Mr. Woods."

"Just here with my sister for a meal, no need for all the fuss. Keep it laid-back," Jackson replied.

The owner gave Fiona a glance, realizing she was the sister and not

the love interest he initially

assumed. After all, it seemed unlikely

el.r

for Mr. Woods to have a

romantic interest.

Hearing herself called 'sister,' Fiona shot Jackson a knowing look.