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

"What's brought you here, Jackson?" Zoe asked, her tone light but her eyes serious.

Jackson's expression was stone-cold as he replied, "Let's make a deal, shall we?"noveldrama

But Jackson wasn't having any of it. He just turned his back and walked away, not even giving her a chance to explain herself.

Fuming, Zoe stamped her foot in frustration. "I know who was behind your parents' deaths!" she yelled after him.

Jackson froze, his face changing in an instant. Like a predator about to pounce, he was suddenly in front of Zoe, his grip on her neck firm and unyielding.

His eyes bore into hers as he slowly tightened his hold, enunciating each word, "What did you just say?"

"Jackson, if you... if you marry me, I'll give you the evidence you need."

Without hesitation, Jackson dragged her by the throat into another room, swiped a keycard through the lock, kicked the door open, and tossed Zoe inside.

A few moments later, they emerged from the room, looking like they'd just stepped out of a romantic drama.

Zoe clung to Jackson's arm, playing the part of the besotted couple to perfection.

Meanwhile, Fiona and Jasmine were deep in conversation about the upcoming International Film Star competition as they left another room. Jasmine could sense Fiona's reluctance about letting the Larkin family's star client win the title. "Don't worry, I'll handle it," Jasmine said confidently, giving Fiona's shoulder a reassuring pat.

Noticing Fiona had stopped in her tracks, Jasmine nudged her. "What's up?"

Fiona didn't answer, her gaze fixed on something-or someone-in the distance. She frowned, ready to confront Jackson.

"That jerk, cozying up to another woman right here. He's got some nerve," Jasmine snapped, her fiery temper flaring.

Before Fiona could react, someone tugged her sleeve, pulling her back. Without a second glance, she walked away, leaving it all behind.

Feelings aren't easy to control. When you like someone, you just do. It's not a crime or anything to be ashamed of.

Jackson was at that age where settling down made sense, and Fiona knew she had no right to object.

"Hey, slow down a bit," Jasmine

called out, hurrying to keep up. Jackson thought he heard a familiar voice and turned around, catching just a glimpse of Jasmine before the elevator doors closed.

As they reached the ground floor, Jackson finally spotted Fiona.

He left Zoe behind, attempting to follow Fiona, but the crowd was too thick, and

he could only watch as she vanished from sight.

He tried time and again to trace her steps, but it seemed like she was deliberately hiding, always just out of reach.

Time flew by, and soon the school holidays were upon them. Thanks to Fiona's influence, Jasmine managed to edge the Larkin family out of the International Glam event. During this period, Fiona uncovered some of the Larkin family's secret investment moves.

The Larkins were aiming to groom an international film star, bolster their influence, and eventually take over the Woods family, becoming the top dynasty in the Capital.

Fiona stared out the window, watching the fiery sunset paint the sky before it was swallowed by the night.

Meanwhile, the design competition

was heating up, broadcast live to

eager audiences everywhere. Everyone was on the edge of their seats, desperate to find out who the legendary H really was.