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

Tyler pulled out a small, palm-sized gift box and slid it over to Fiona, his cheeks flushed with a shy, youthful blush, like he'd had one too many drinks.

"Fiona, this is for you."

Fiona took the box and opened it to find a silver bracelet with intricate patterns. It was stunning and seemed just the right size for her wrist-clearly, a lot of thought had gone into it.

Nash came up and quietly slipped another gift into her hand, his voice barely audible.

"Happy birthday, and welcome to adulthood."

With that, he turned to leave.

Fiona playfully grabbed his arm and teased, "What did you get me?"

She slowly opened the gift bag, revealing a box that was absolutely exquisite. Compared to what Tyler had given her, this was on another level entirely.

The box was adorned with fine gold threads, painted with a majestic eagle in golden lacquer, shimmering brilliantly. Even the clasp was unique, held together by a small, unassuming gold button.

Inside was a delicate gold necklace, featuring an intricately crafted eagle. The craftsmanship was clearly complex, with a charming, vintage feel.

"Thank you, I love it," Fiona said, holding up the necklace. She tugged on Nash's arm with a grin and said, "Aren't you going to help me put it on?"

Nash: ...

"Wow, Nash, who knew you had such a knack for picking out jewelry for a girl? This looks pricey!"

"Yeah, do you have a crush on Fiona or something?" someone in the group teased.noveldrama

Laughter and jokes filled the air as everyone watched with amused, curious eyes.

"Yeah, right! Get out of here!" Nash grumbled, pushing past them to return to his seat.

After all the playful banter, Fiona felt a surge of happiness in her class. Sometimes, emotions are at their purest and most genuine.

During the last class, Fiona received a text from Jackson wishing her well. Even though it was just words on a screen, it warmed her heart. Sadly, Jackson and Jasmine couldn't join her that evening.

Tyler had other plans, Nash made an excuse about shopping for Kimberly, and even the ever-busy Erin claimed she had to shoot a scene overnight. So, Fiona headed back to hep

lakeside villa alone.

"Miss Fiona, happy birthday!"

The security guard at the villa entrance smiled and handed her a single rose.

As she wondered what was up, he turned away, and she came across several kids along the path, each holding a rose and echoing the same greeting.

The more confused she felt, the more touched she became.

She realized her friends couldn't all be busy-they had planned this for her.

By the time she got home, she had collected exactly ninety-nine roses, her heart full of joy. She pushed open the villa door, but inside was dark and quiet, the silence wrapping around her like a blanket.

Maybe she had hoped for too much. Who would really go to such lengths for her?

She set the roses down at the entrance, feeling something sticky against her

fingers, which made her frown and instantly put her on alert.

Something felt off!

Just as she was about to switch on the light, a sudden clatter came from the kitchen, the unmistakable sound of a knife hitting the floor.

"Who's there?!" she called out sharply.