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

Fiona opened the image and, sure enough, it was an invitation. But what really caught her eye were the words "Tyler" written on it. It seemed Lizzy hadn't forgotten about their little episode in New York, remembering even the smallest details about Tyler.

After shooting back a quick "okay" to Tyler, she put her phone away. She couldn't help but mull over it; Lizzy was known for being quite the schemer. Back in New York, Lizzy had nearly managed to tie the knot with Jackson, making a fool of herself in the process. Fiona was sure that Lizzy would jump at any chance to restore her dignity, and this seemed like the perfect opportunity.

Once she had everything sorted, Fiona headed downstairs where Jackson had already set up a table laden with dishes. The kitchen and dining room were separate, divided by a door, but even with it closed, the mouth-watering aroma of the food wafted through the air.

Fiona hurried into the dining room, the enticing fragrance hitting her senses. She took a deep breath as Jackson waved her over. "Come here, Fiona."

Having slipped into a cute little sundress before coming downstairs, Jackson finally got to take in Fiona's charming outfit.

The delicate, sunflower-yellow dress looked adorable on her, showing off her youthful charm. Her hair was casually tied up in a ponytail, making her face appear even more fresh-faced.

"Jackson, the food smells amazing!" She rubbed her grumbling stomach and eagerly walked over to Jackson.

They sat down and started eating with gusto. It was the first time Fiona had tasted Jackson's cooking.

They were usually busy, with meals prepared by the house staff, leaving them only to enjoy their food. But today was different; Jackson's cooking was on a whole different level.

Halfway through the meal, Fiona remembered the issue with Lizzy, pausing mid- bite with a piece of crispy pork rib in hand.

"Jackson, have you heard about the Larkin family throwing a party?"

Fiona was enjoying her meal, glancing up to see Jackson, who reached over to wipe the corner of her mouth.

"I've heard about it. Why?" Jacksonnoveldrama

asked, his tone casual, indicating he wasn't particularly concerned. Seeing Fiona savoring her meal brought a smile to his face. "Take your time, there's plenty more. Here's some shrimp; I know you love it."

Jackson had peeled the shrimp for her and placed them in her bowl, adding a bowl of soup beside her.

Fiona wiped her hands and shook her head. "It's nothing, just seems odd. Even if Lizzy wanted to come back, why go through all the hassle of hosting a big party?"

She didn't dwell on it much since it wasn't a big deal for her.

"Who knows, maybe it's some plot. It's always been like that, and it'll probably stay the same."

Some things never change.

Fiona agreed.

"You'd think she went through all that effort to reinvent herself abroad just so people wouldn't remember her past. Now she's holding this party and even sending Tyler an invitation. This kind of self-defeating move doesn't quite seem like her style."

Fiona's words made Jackson frown. He asked, "Have you seen Tyler's invitation?"

Hearing this, Fiona paused, then

quickly retrieved her phone to show Jackson the picture Tyler had. sent her. She had scrutinized the image earlier and found nothing amiss.