Secrets Of The Neglected Wife: When Her True Colors Shine

Chapter 243: Kellans voice, low and smooth like velvet, carried an undercurrent of something alluring as his eyes lingered on Allison.

Though his face remained as calm as still water, his hand unconsciously clenched.

Allison responded with a wry grin.

Oh, I believe you.

After all, Mr.

Lloyd, youve pointed out before just how... valuable I could be to your grandmother and Lorna.

Beyond the surface, Allison had becso tightly woven into the fabric of Charisma Company that any scandal involving her would ripple across its value.

Her seemingly offhand comment served as a reminderto herself more than to himthat she needed to remain on her guard around this enigmatic and dangerously unpredictable man.

Their connection, after all, was merely a practical alliance.

Yet, despite knowing this, she couldnt completely ignore the strange way her pulse quickened whenever he spoke.

This was foreign to her.

People like them, well-versed in calculated detachment, didnt get tangled up in emotions after something as fleeting as a one-night affair.

So, after a short pause, she quickly added, That said, I should thank you, Mr.

Lloyd, for showing up today just in the nick of time.

It was nothing, Kellan replied, his eyes dark as if he were suppressing thoughts that didnt belong in the open air. The evening breeze, soft and cooling, brushed their faces, while the dim streetlights cast their shadows long and thin.

For a brief moment, the shadows stretched and intertwined, as though mimicking the closeness of lovers. Kellans gaze drifted from those intertwined shadows.

He understood that Allisons words were meant to reinforce a boundary between them.

Glancing upward, he remarked casually, My grandfather had only a passing connection with Keanu.

But now that my condition is no longer a secret, its only fitting that I pay my respects.

Besides, in the Lloyd family, were always surrounded by wolves.

Expanding ones network never hurts in a place like this.

Kellans reasoning was sound, his words hinting at the complexities and power plays lurking within wealthy circles.

I see, Allison responded, her smile forced.

Walking side by side, a heavy silence settled between thema silence that felt almost comforting in its unspoken understanding.

Allison still clutched the brocade box in her hands, her emotions in turmoil.

For someone like her, who had the strength to face nearly anything, this feeling of being cared for was something foreign, something she wasnt accustomed to.

The Ruby Jade inside, crafted with care and affection by an elder, was more than just a giftit was a symbol meant to empower her with confidence.

Noticing her gaze on the box, Kellans voice broke the silence.

Even though you and Keanu arent bound by blood, the bond you share is probably deeper than what most families can claim.

He truly treatedlike his own granddaughter, Allison admitted, her voice softer as she took a deep breath and gazed up at the night sky, glittering with stars.

But I always knew I didnt belong with the Stevens family.

A flicker of satisfaction passed over Kellans face.

Keanu wouldnt mind that.

He just wants to see those he cares about happymuch like you.

Allison smiled in return.

Even though someone in your family may have ill intentions, I know your grandmother and Lorna only wish for your happiness and freedom.

It was trueAllison and Kellan were very much alike.

They wore their coldness like a shield, but beneath it lay a fierce loyalty to the few they held dear.

Her words about freedom tugged at Kellans memory, recalling the night he had laid bare his most vulnerable secret to her in that room.

Even the way he had surrendered his desires to a silicone mannequin seemed to be something Allison understood instinctively.

Both of them had chosen to pretend nothing had happened between them afterward.

On that night, Allison had whispered something similar, urging him to stay true to himself and ignore the suffocating expectations of others.

Kellans eyes becserious.

Youre right.

When they finally reached the parking garage, the moment to part ways lingered in the air.

But unexpectedly, they both spoke at once.

This weekend... I... The words collided, and Kellan broke into a rare, helpless smile.

Ladies first, Ms.

Clarke.

Allison laughed, the tension easing.

I have scommitments next weekend, so I wont be able to cteach Lorna.

I thought I should let you know in advance.

Quite the coincidence, Kellan responded smoothly.

I was planning to take Lorna out next weekend myself.

I was actually going to suggest you take a break.

Perfect, Allison said, waving goodbye.

Then Ill skip next weekend and see you the week after.

She didnt think much of it.

Rebecca had recently signed her up for a competition, and she needed the toff to focus. Now that she had divorced, Allison was intent on reclaiming her life.

If her days in the Stevens family had been about playing by the rules, now she sought the freedom to write her own. See you, Ms.

Clarke, Kellan replied, watching her as she started the car and drove off.

Long after she disappeared from view, he stood there, lost in thought, contemplating the uncertain path that stretched before them both.