Dorian’s words sounded sincere enough, but Amara didn’t believe a single one. And even if he was telling the truth, what difference did it make?

“So you want another shot at winning her back?” she said coolly. “Well, not everyone gets a second chance. There’s no such thing as a cure for regret.”

Dorian closed his eyes, pain twisting his features. He was truly, deeply miserable.

It wasn’t until he lost Elysia that he realized just how much he loved her. If he could do it all over again, he would never have gotten involved with Jessica. When Jessica said she was in pain that day, he wouldn’t have taken her to the doctor either.

Seeing his friend in such a state made Finnian uncomfortable, but he wasn’t about to defend Dorian. He knew Dorian had brought this on himself just like he had. Both of them deserved to be left behind by Amara and Elysia.

“Finn, what are you all doing here?”

Suddenly, a gentle and melodious voice rang out. They all looked up to see Liliana, elegantly stepping in with a small handbag on her arm.

The room they were in was semi-private, with a large window looking out to the main area and a beaded curtain that could be easily pulled aside, so it wasn’t surprising for passersby to notice them. Still, it was unexpected to see Liliana here.

She was dressed in a striking red dress, her hair softly curled and draped over her shoulders, exuding both elegance and allure. Without hesitation, she sat down right next to Finnian, as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

The atmosphere in the room shifted instantly. Amara’s posture stiffened, Finnian’s face darkened, and only Dorian was oblivious, lost in thoughts of Elysia.

Finnian didn’t respond to Liliana’s greeting. Instead, he asked, “What are you doing here?”

There was a clear edge of irritation in his voice, which Liliana picked up on right away. Her heart sank. Then she remembered the photo Emma had sent her earlier -Finnian and Amara getting out of the same car and her mood darkened even more.

But she kept her composure, lifting

the box she was carrying. “I was out shopping nearby for some pastry samples for the guests at our wedding. Afterward, I thought d stop in for some tea and happened to see you all here. Finn, would you like to try these? They’re really good.”

As she spoke, Liliana began arranging the pastries on the table, each one presented with care.

“These samples include all the most popular flavors, so I’m sure our guests will be happy. Finn really care about our wedding, and want every detail to be perfect.”

She spoke brightly, even offering a pastry to Amara.

“Ms. Sullivan, you should try one too. Most women love something sweet-this one’s extra sugary.”

Liliana was nothing if not gracious-she set out the pastries and poured tea for everyone with practiced ease.

Amara watched the scene with a cold, unreadable expression. She always looked calm, so it was hard to tell what she was feeling, but he fingers, clenched tightly in her lap, betrayed her.

A moment later, she stood up. “I’ll let you all talk. I’m leaving.”

She’d said everything she needed to Dorian, and she didn’t feel any obligation to put on a friendly face for Liliana. If she wanted to go, she would simply go.

As she rose without hesitation, Finnian immediately stood up as well. “Let me walk you out.”

Amara spoke quietly, “I can get back on my own. Your fiancée is here-it wouldn’t be appropriate.”

The word “fiancée” hit Finnian hard. He didn’t follow her, just watched helplessly as she walked away.

Once, he would have insisted on accompanying her. But not anymore. He knew Amara didn’t want that from him.