Flora’s Guide to a Second Chance at Love and Life
Chapter 1157

"Hey, sis! I know yesterday was your birthday, but something came up, and I couldn't celebrate with you."

The young guy's cheeks turned a bit pink as he spoke, his eyes softening, the usual chill in them melting away whenever Flora was around.

Flora glanced at the pink gift box he held out and took it with a small smile. "Thanks."

He seemed even happier once she accepted the gift.

"How's your injury doing? All healed up?" Flora asked.

"Yeah, much better," he nodded. "Just a little sore now and then."

"Let me take a look."

After all, when you receive a gift, it's only fair to do something in return.

Flora motioned for him to roll up his sleeve, revealing a bandage with a bit of blood seeping through.

She carefully unwrapped it and saw it wasn't too bad; a couple more days of rest and he'd be fine. She rewrapped the wound and handed him a small bottle of ointment.

"Use this three times a day. It's great for healing cuts and scrapes. I know some guys don't mind scars, but if you can avoid them, why not?"

"Thanks, sis," he beamed, but then his eyes caught the ring on her finger, and his expression shifted to something darker.

She's wearing a ring? Already?

Flora had just turned twenty yesterday-Mr. Howard must be a real piece of work!

"I've got to run; things to do," she said, not noticing his sudden change in mood. She took a few steps before stopping and turning back. "Oh, almost forgot-"

She pulled out a packet of candy from her coat pocket. "Here, for you."

She'd promised him some candy last time, and here it was.

He blinked, surprised. He thought she'd just said that to be nice, but she actually remembered.

"Not a fan of this flavor?"

Seeing him hesitate, Flora frowned slightly, feeling a bit annoyed. Was giving candy that tricky?

"Next time, I won't bother."

"No, I like it!" he quickly reassured her, taking the candy as Flora walked away. Yet, a strange feeling lingered in his chest.

"Boss, the explosives are all set. When do we go for it?"

A voice crackled in his ear, snapping him back to reality.

He reached up, adjusting an earpiece hidden in his hair. "Hold off... just a little longer."

"Hold off? Boss, we should've acted yesterday when both the Riverton and Lancaster folks were around. They've left now-how long are we gonna wait?"

He watched Flora disappear down the path, his fingers brushing over the candy in his pocket. "We'll move after the newbies finish their orientation test."

The voice on the other end didn't seem thrilled with his decision but agreed nonetheless.

...

Flora made her way to see Mike, receiving warm greetings from everyone she passed, some even trying to butter her up.

She was used to the attention and strolled into Mike's office like she owned the place.

Mike had called her in to talk about the new students' orientation test.

It wasn't just her; Selene and a few others were also there.

"Flora!" Selene called out as soon as she spotted her.

Flora gave a nod in return.

"Alright, everyone's here. Let's get down to business," Mike said, clearing his throat. "You all know

about the orientation test, so I'll keep it brief. It's set for three days from now. We'll have some seniors there to make sure you stay safe, but they're only there to keep you alive. According to the rules, you've got to survive out in the wilderness for ten days. If you can't, you're out."