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

Nash's mom was floored by how desperate Fiona was to get out of the Woods estate. It got her thinking-was the Woods family really that bad that Fiona couldn't even handle one night there?

The more she mulled it over, the more frustrated she got. Her eyes landed on Jackson, her younger brother, who was great in every way except for his stubborn streak. He couldn't even manage to charm a girl-what good was he for anything else? It drove her nuts that he wasn't lifting a finger to help keep Fiona around.

"After dinner, I'll drive you back," Jackson said, putting down his fork, his voice as chilly as ever. "We should have enough time."

"Alright."

With Jackson's word, Fiona felt a bit more at ease.

Dinner wrapped up without a hitch, and Jackson got ready to take Fiona back. He still had no clue about the mess he was about to walk into.

Back at the Woods estate, Jackson found all the tires in the garage flat, even on his beloved black convertible. He froze for a second, fists tightening.

"Fiona, hang tight here for a bit," he said, making his way towards the house.

Inside, he caught Nash's mom on the phone, repeating some instructions. As he got closer, he could finally make out her words.

"I'm warning you, if anyone tries to help Ms. Fiona leave the Woods estate area, I'll make sure no vehicle in the Capital will be safe."

A minute later, she hung up, looking pretty pleased with herself. She turned around, only to see Jackson giving her a dark stare.

"Jackson, what's the big idea, sneaking up on me like that? Why didn't you say anything?"

"Why did you do this?" Jackson demanded, eyes locked on hers. "Even if you adore Fiona, you can't just do this. She's got to get back to school!"

"Tomorrow's Sunday; what's the rush? I'm just worried about your future. If you could handle your love life, I wouldn't have to pull these stunts."

Feeling more exasperated, Nash's mom pulled Jackson closer and whispered, "Fiona's right outside, isn't she? Let her stay the night at the Woods estate. Maybe you two will hit it off. Who knows, it could lead to something more, and I might get a little of that happiness."

"Happiness?" Jackson couldn't help but chuckle sarcastically. "You're thirty-six this year. What happiness are you chasing? Isn't your zodiac year bringing you enough excitement?"

"You mentioned it's my zodiac year; I need to be extra careful. It would be great if you two got engaged soon, so I can sail through this year with less drama, right?" Seeing how ridiculous this was getting, Jackson turned to leave and find Fiona.noveldrama

But Fiona was set on leaving. When Jackson tried to help her get a cab, none were available. As the clock ticked towards 9:30 PM, even if they left right then, she wouldn't make it back to her dorm in time.

Sensing Fiona's disappointment, Jackson stepped up, wrapping a comforting arm around her shoulders. "We're stuck for tonight. Let's head back to the estate, and I'll take you back first thing in the morning."

Fiona nodded quietly, letting Jackson guide her back to the estate.

It was as if everything had been planned out, like Nash's mom was pulling all the

strings. She was waiting for Fiona to return and had already told the staff to prep a room next to Jackson's, almost identical to his.