Lila sat in stunned silence, the grand sitting room of Charles Blackwell's mansion suddenly feeling suffocating. Charles had just finished telling her the story of his empire; a tale of ambition, betrayal and power. But it was the last part of his confession that left her reeling.
"I've made mistakes," Charles admitted, his gray eyes heavy with remorse. "Mistakes that hurt people, including your mother. But I've worked to atone for them, Lila. I need you to understand that."
Lila's voice was sharp as she asked, "Does atoning include running an empire built on exploitation?"
Charles leaned forward, his tone measured but defensive. "I didn't bring you here to judge me. I brought you here to know me. You've lived your whole life without a father, don't deny yourself the chance to have one now."
She shook her head, her emotions a chaotic mix of anger and sadness. "You don't get to rewrite the past because it's convenient now. You don't get to act like this makes everything okay."
Charles sighed, his hand running through his silver hair. "You're right. I can't change the past. But I can be here for you now, if you let me."
Later, back at the ranch, Lila replayed the conversation in her mind. Damon found her pacing in the barn, her hands trembling with frustration.
"How did it go?" he asked, leaning against the doorframe.
Lila stopped, her face a mixture of anger and confusion. "I don't know what to feel. He's so… composed, like he expects me to just accept everything and move on."
"You don't owe him anything," Damon said firmly. "But maybe giving him a chance will help you find some peace."
She looked at him, her heart aching at the steadiness in his gaze. "You always know what to say."
"Only because I know you," he said, stepping closer. "You're stronger than you think, Lila. Whatever decision you make, it's yours, and that's what matters."
The next morning, Lila received another surprise. Aiden showed up at the ranch, his jaw set with determination.
"We need to talk," he said, his tone leaving no room for argument.
Lila crossed her arms, already bracing herself. "About what?"
"About us," Aiden said. "I know I messed up, Lila. I doubted you when I should've trusted you. But I'm not giving up on us."
She sighed, exhaustion evident in her posture. "Aiden, this isn't the time. I have too much going on to even think about"
"You don't have to decide now," he interrupted, stepping closer. "But I need you to know that I'm here. I'll wait for as long as it takes."
Before she could respond, Damon appeared, his expression dark. "What's going on here?"
"Not your business," Aiden snapped.
"It is if you're upsetting her," Damon shot back, stepping between them.
Lila held up her hands, frustration boiling over. "Enough! Both of you!" She turned to Aiden. "I appreciate what you're saying, but I need space right now."
She looked at Damon. "And you stop trying to protect me. I can handle myself."