Chapter 186: The moment those words fell from her lips, Kellan was instantly transported back to that night on the cruise ship, when Allison had boldly declared, Ill be in charge.

In that moment, with her straddling him, he had felt as if his very soul ignited, willingly surrendering all control as she guided him into a realm of bliss that seemed almost otherworldly.

The thrill of that encounter lingered in his memory like a tattoo on his heart.

Kellan swallowed hard, forcing himself to push Allison away with surprising restraint.

I dont want anything, he replied, maintaining a calm exterior.

He stepped back a few paces, wrestling with the storm of emotions churning within him.

I was just joking.

As long as you dont mind, Ms.

Clarke, he added, striving to keep the atmosphere light.

Allison gradually released her hold on his waist.

She responded with composure, Dont worry, Mr.

Lloyd.

I understand the value of keeping secrets.

I wont breathe a word.

But honestly, its not a big deal.

Its just personal preference and mutual consent.

We arent doing anything scandalous.

Who would dare to gossip? She knew that Kellan carried immense responsibilities on his shoulders.

Without a proper outlet for his pent-up stress, he might very well be consumed by such desires.

Allison recognized how tough his life must be, living in a household filled with schemers.

Yet he managed to conceal his unique quirks with finesse.

His self-discipline was nothing short of remarkable.

Compared to those middle-aged sleazy executives, Kellan stood out as a figure of integrity.

So, Mr.

Lloyd, just be yourself.

Dont always bottle up your desires, she encouraged with a smile.

Kellan was caught off guard by her words.

His heart raced, a whirlwind of emotions flooding through him.

It was the first time anyone had ever urged him to simply embrace who he was.

Most people would either flatter him, look down on him in secret, or attempt to manipulate him for their gain.

But Allison was refreshingly direct, merely suggesting he let go of his inhibitions.

That kind of concern was a rare gem.novelbin

Yet, personal matters remained just that personal.

Her presence here warranted deeper consideration.

Kellan took a breath, steadying himself as he looked her in the eye.

Ms.

Clarke, I doubt you just happened to wander by.

Since you agreed to come to the Lloyd familys residence and even join the company, were you looking for something in particular? He cut straight to the chase, no beating around the bush.

Allison smirked, acknowledging that he was no fool.

How had she not realized earlier that he was this perceptive? He even remembered their previous conversations.

Kellan was sharp; she had long known that hiding anything from him was a futile endeavor.

Lying was simply not her style.

Instead, she smiled and replied, You seem unfazed, Mr.

Lloyd.

Looks like you already had an inkling.

Since you understood from the start, why give me the opportunity? Because I trust you, Ms.

Clarke.

I believe you wouldnt do anything to harm me, Kellan responded quickly and honestly, as if the words had simply been there waiting to be spoken.

His demeanor remained cool as he continued, Besides, we are friends, arent we? That answer struck a familiar chord.

It seemed Kellan placed great significance on the word friend.

So, with a smile, Allison replied, Of course, we are friends.

At this juncture, she decided to lay her cards on the table.

I came to Ontdale to search for my mother.

Ive traced her footsteps to the Lloyd family.

I am now certain that my mother was acquainted with your mother and Kinslee.

You must have seen the photo outside.

The woman in white is my mother.

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