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

"How about you throw out a few options, and I'll pick one?" She flashed a sudden smile, her eyes sparkling with a touch of playfulness that was hard to resist.

Jackson noticed the change in her demeanor. This girl was anything but ordinary. Despite her youthful appearance, there was a mischievous spark beneath her calm exterior. "So, what are you in the mood for? Something light or maybe spicy?"

"I usually go for spicy, but not today," Fiona replied. "After yesterday, my stomach's been feeling a bit off, so I'm craving something more on the mild side."

After all the booze and spicy food she had the night before, it was no wonder her stomach was protesting.

"Well, knowing that, maybe ease up on the drinks next time you're out at a bar. It's a bit risky for a young lady like you."

Jackson advised, pulling a bottle of yogurt from the glove box. He unscrewed the cap and handed it to her.

"Here, drink this. It'll help settle your stomach."

"Thanks, big bro." Fiona grinned, "I don't usually hit the bars; last night's outing was just to keep someone company. But don't worry, I can handle myself." Big bro...

She called him that in such a sweet manner.

Jackson's eyes drifted to her waist, hidden beneath her oversized school uniform, concealing the curves he remembered from the night before.

But he quickly checked himself, shaking off those thoughts. She was still in school; what was he thinking?

"How about we try some Italian?" Jackson suggested, steering the conversation back on track.

"Sounds good to me," Fiona agreed, her straw caught between her teeth. Honestly, it didn't matter what they ate.

Just being around Jackson, with his strikingly handsome face, was enough to fill her up.

"Alright then."

With her ned, Jackson started the car and headed to his go-to Italian spot. Being a regular there, the manager recognized him and greeted him warmly, "Mr. Woods."

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He shot a curious glance at Fiona, noting it was the first time she'd accompanied Jackson.

The manager led them to Jackson's usual private room and handed over the menu. "Order whatever you fancy," Jackson said, passing the menu to Fiona.

Fiona took it and expertly ordered a few dishes, making Jackson raise an eyebrow. Wasn't she supposed to be an orphan from some small town?

Yet, the way she navigated the menu seemed anything but provincial.

"Heard you just transferred to Westbrook High today?" he asked.

"Yeah."

"With everything that went down today, how come your parents didn't show up?"

Fiona paused, caught off guard by the mention of her parents. Was he trying to dig into her past?

She set her glass down, resting her hands on the table, her expression turning somber. "Well... my parents arent around. They've gone to a faraway place..."

She wasn't lying! Her parents were indeed far away!

She might have left it open to interpretation, though.

"I'm sorry," Jackson said, seeing the genuine sadness in her eyes. "Your folks up in heaven wouldn't want you to be sad."

He regretted prying, realizing it only stirred up her grief.

Fiona nearly choked on her tea, keeping her composure just in time!