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

As the crowd finally caught on, Janet pointed furiously in the direction Fiona had gone, her voice dripping with anger.

"That witch! Who does she think she is, talking like that?"

What gave Fiona the right to act so superior?

The group was practically boiling over with rage. Why wouldn't Fiona step up and help her brother out? Janet, fists clenched in frustration, decided to make a call.noveldrama

Later that afternoon, Fiona and Nash waited by the school gate for Jackson.

"I had no idea you were such a hit," Nash chuckled, throwing a sidelong glance at Fiona. "Kinda makes me a bit jealous of all the attention you get."

Fiona rolled her eyes, casting a cool look his way. "You can have all this attention if you want it," she retorted.

Nash: "..."

Is she for real?

The two continued their playful back-and-forth until a sleek black Rolls-Royce rolled up nearby. Fiona and Nash headed over to the car.

"You're running a bit late today, bro," Fiona teased as she hopped in.

Nash was left speechless; just a minute ago, Fiona was anything but sweet with him. Yet, in front of Jackson, she was all sugar and spice. She really knew how to put on an act.

"How about dinner at The Emerald Lounge tonight?" Jackson suggested.

"Absolutely! I've been dying to try their Emerald Shrimp," Nash quickly chimed in. Fiona added in a sugary, almost childlike voice, "I'll leave it all up to you, brother." Nash: "..."

Why did Fiona suddenly seem a little too smooth?

She sure knew how to play it up for Jackson!

The food at The Emerald Lounge was known to be top-notch, and Fiona had been itching to check it out. She never cut corners when it came to good food.

"Jackson, what made you think of heading to The Emerald Lounge today?" Nash asked.

He knew the place was famously pricey. Usually, getting Jackson to agree to dine there was no small feat.

"To reward Fiona for signing a big-name celebrity with our company," Jackson said, playfully ruffling her hair and shooting Nash a look. "Are you coming or what?"

Nash quickly scrambled into the car, nearly forgetting himself in the process.

The drive was smooth and relaxed, the warm car interior lulling Fiona into a nap against the window.

When they arrived, the trio made a beeline for The Emerald Lounge.

"Mr. Woods, welcome," a sharp-dressed middle-aged man greeted them warmly, his smile as wide as could be. "Mr. Woods, your private room is ready. Let me show you in."

They were ushered into a lavish private room, the setting both elegant and sophisticated.

"Mr. Woods, would you like your usual selection?" the man asked, clearly eager to please.

Jackson placed a tablet in front of Fiona, speaking gently, "Fiona, what do you feel like having? You're in charge today."

Fiona didn't hesitate, picking up the tablet to scan the menu. Holy smokes, the prices were sky-high!

Even the cheapest dish was in the four figures!

Is this place plated in gold or what?

Fiona gulped, realizing she was way out of her league.

"Do you have any favorites, brother?" Fiona asked Jackson.

"I'm easy," he replied.

Nash took the cue to jump in, "I'll have the Emerald Shrimp, the Golden Tower, and maybe..."

But then, a sharp look from Jackson stopped him cold, instantly shutting him up.