Flora’s Guide to a Second Chance at Love and Life
Chapter 384

Cynthia and Eilies were both a bit speechless.

"Hey, I've got no classes tonight. How about we go out for a stroll and grab some dinner? Rafael's coming, and I'm so excited! I need to buy some cute outfits!" Cynthia exclaimed, rubbing her hands together, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

Eilies nodded in agreement.

Flora chimed in, "I can't join you tonight; I've already got plans."

Cynthia's face fell. A dorm outing just didn't feel right without everyone. If Flora wasn't coming, the fun would be cut in half!

"Who are you meeting? Your boyfriend?" Cynthia asked.

"No," Flora shook her head, "Just some friends. You remember Kaylee from the last time, right? She handed out the ROTC uniforms."

"Ah, okay," Cynthia said, sounding a bit disappointed.

Seeing their downcast faces, Flora thought for a moment and then asked, "Do you want to come along?"

"Can we?" Cynthia's eyes lit up.

"As long as you're cool with it," Flora replied. She was worried they might feel awkward since they wouldn't know many people there.

But she needn't have worried.

Cynthia was outgoing and loved making new friends. The chance to go out, have a meal, and meet new people? Too good to miss! Flora's friends were her friends too!

Eilies was more laid-back. She could chat with anyone, but deep connections were rare for her-except with Cynthia.

The three of them hopped into a taxi and headed to the hotel.

When they arrived, Kaylee and Dane were already there.

"Flora!" Dane called out warmly.

Kaylee stood up, smiling at Flora.

Flora nodded and introduced her roommates, "These are my roommates, Eilies and Cynthia."

"Hi, you guys, I'm Cynthia. Great to meet you! Now that we're all here in Maple Grove, we should hang out more," Cynthia said, quickly making friends as she chatted with Dane and Kaylee. Eilies, though quieter, didn't seem uncomfortable.

"You're from Maple Grove College of Physical Education? That's awesome! Is it true that your school is full of handsome guys? Can you introduce me to one?" Cynthia asked eagerly. "Sure thing, we can exchange numbers and chat later," Dane said with a laugh.

"Flora, aren't we ordering yet?" Cynthia asked, her stomach growling.

Flora was glued to her phone, typing away. "Go ahead and order. That guy got caught by paparazzi, so he'll be a while."

Hearing the mention of paparazzi, Cynthia guessed that 'that guy' must be someone from the entertainment industry. She was amazed at how well-connected Flora was.

Then she thought of Rafael and sighed. The welcome party was still days away, and she could hardly wait to see him.

Turning her disappointment into appetite, Cynthia grabbed the menu and ordered a bunch of dishes. After she was done, she handed the menu to Kaylee and Dane.

The food arrived quickly, but no one started eating.

Though starving, Cynthia felt it would be rude to start without everyone present.

"Let's dig in. He's just arrived at the hotel entrance," Flora said, looking up from her phone.

"Sorry for being late."

The door swung open, and in walked Rafael, wearing sunglasses and a black face mask.

"Flora, you wouldn't believe how persistent those reporters are. I'm wiped out," Rafael said as he took off his sunglasses and mask, revealing a striking yet aloof face. The silver earring in his right ear glinted under the light.