Lila was rendered completely speechless. It felt as though a stone were lodged in her throat, choking back any response.
She realized, with agonizing clarity, just how ruinous her reputation was at the start of this second chance.
In the past, all of high society knew her eyes had been fixed on no one but Dorian. For his sake, she had publicly degraded and tormented Adrian time and again, driving a dagger into the only heart that had ever truly beat for her.
Every c***k in their relationship, every wall between them—she had built them with her own bare hands.
She had no defense, and no right to offer one.
Meanwhile, Adrian had already risen from his seat. He walked over to the dry bar and poured two glasses of cabernet sauvignon.
Returning with the crystal goblets, his face was a mas
