Stefan's anger was like the oppressive calm before a storm.
Yet, Kieran showed no sign of compromising. Even Lila was unafraid, though her heart was filled with some concern.
Without Stefan's assistance, could Morgan Group survive the crisis?
Kieran had been working tirelessly these past few days, barely eating and sleeping. His occasional, involuntary displays of fatigue had left her feeling heartache.
Sensing her worry, Kieran's grip on her hand tightened slightly to comfort her.
Lifting his gaze, his expression remained cold and indifferent, maintaining an air of dignity that wasn't diminished by the elder's imposing presence.
"The reason I've worked to expand my businesses is to protect my family. But now, if I have to trade the family's peace for that, it defeats the purpose.
"I will not marry someone to make connections, nor will I abandon Morgan Group. As for my employees, they will get what they should."
Stefan glared at him coldly. "Do you think it's that simple? Do you really think I'm unaware of how large your company's deficit is?"
"Yes, the problem is significant, but I've spent the past few days abroad addressing these issues. If one solution doesn't work, I'll find another. If a supply chain breaks and can't be reconnected, I'll build a new one."
Stefan was in disbelief. "You've found a solution?"
"I'm still working on it," Kieran replied truthfully. Success wasn't guaranteed yet, but he knew the world rarely offered only one solution to a problem.
"So, you're saying you won't even consider an arranged marriage?"
"I won't." Kieran's voice was cold, but his tone was resolute.
Stefan narrowed his eyes. "Fine. I won't force you. I'll give you time. I want to see just how capable you truly are!"
With that, he stormed out.
He recognized Kieran's abilities, but business wasn't elementary math—it couldn't be solved overnight.
Hearing this, Kieran pulled the car to the side of the road and stopped. He then turned to face her and said, "Mrs. Morgan, if I recall correctly, I've already told you about loving you a long time ago."
Their gazes met.
"If I didn't make it clear before, I'll say it again now." He continued, "Lila, I love you. I've loved you for a long time."
His voice was clear, neither hurried nor slow, yet incredibly gentle.
Lila wasn't sure if it was his touching words or the deep emotion in his voice, but her heart seemed to skip a beat. It filled the gap left from the first time she had heard him announce to the media that she was his fiance.
She pressed a hand to her chest, but before she could react, a shadow fell over her, and a moist warmth brushed her lips.
Kieran rarely acted with such subtlety. Seeing Lila frozen in place, a faint smile appeared in his eyes.
Fastening his seatbelt again, he drove toward Vermilion Estate while Lila sat quietly in the passenger seat, not daring to look at him.
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: too late for a second chance novel (Lila and Dorian)