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

Fiona didn't jump to answer. She just gave a quick glance and then lowered her eyes, clearly lost in her own thoughts.

"Fiona, you've just come back. Why don't you take a breather? The Stonnell family has been through a lot of changes these past few years. I'll fill you in when the time's right."

"No need to wait for the right time-let's get it all out in the open now," Fiona cut in, not missing a beat.

The older woman's face momentarily darkened, but she quickly covered it with a forced smile.

"Fiona, over the years, the Stonnell family's had some serious financial setbacks. This partnership with the Woods family is make-or-break for us. We can't afford any slip-ups. Jackson's the one they're interested in, so there's no point in us getting caught up in this mess."noveldrama

Mess? Fiona was fuming inside. These people sure had some nerve.

"You claim the Stonnell family's in trouble because of mismanagement, but I know it's not that simple-it's more like the money's been lining your pockets. Even if you don't want to give it back, trust me, I'll find a way to get it from you, with interest. I might be just one person, seemingly all alone, but why are you so worried about my return? I doubt it's just because of my parents."

With that, Fiona stood up, a sly grin on her face. She carefully set her teacup down, saying, "Trying to drug me, are you? Madam, I'm not the clueless girl from a decade ago."

She turned and walked out of the Stonnell family estate.

Her goal wasn't to immediately take back the Stonnell family. After all, these people had been deeply entrenched for decades, and a sudden overthrow wasn't realistic. Today was more about sending a strong message.

As for those two who had died, well, they brought it on themselves—just an unfortunate accident.

After leaving the estate, Fiona headed straight to meet up with Jasmine hear Center College. The area was bustling, making it hard for anyone to follow or snap photos. Her return had certainly stirred up quite the buzz.

Jasmine didn't hold back, giving Fiona the lowdown on everything that had unfolded recently. But when Tyler's name came up, a noticeable blush crept over her cheeks, and she couldn't help but pause now and then, revealing more than she intended.

Fiona noticed but kept quiet.

"So, you're saying Shelly and Tyler have something special going on?" she teased, clearly seeing through Jasmine's nerves. She added with mock Seriousness, "Tyler's doing pretty well for himself, huh? Winning over someone like Shelly from the Bryant family? That's no small feat."

"Fiona, are you even listening?" Jasmine was getting flustered, clutching Fiona's

hand. "Shelly's trouble, and Tyler getting involved with her is bad news."

"Oh, and if it isn't? The end game doesn't change. Jasmine, why are you blushing?" Fiona teased, touching her friend's cheek. "You haven't gone and fallen for Tyler, have you?"

"No way! What are you talking about? Fiona, I'm done with you!" Jasmine huffed, starting to walk away.

Fiona quickly pulled her back, laughing. “Alright, alright, I was just messing with you. Let's get serious. What did you find out while playing the masked figure at the Woods family?"