Chapter 579:

Even Ferdinand was caught off guard.

“Congratulations,” he offered with a knowing smirk, glancing from Allison to Kellan. “Ms. Clarke, if only you knew how moody Mr. Lloyd’s been the past few days.”

But Kellan’s sharp look cut him off, his silence practically daring Ferdinand to keep talking.

Rebecca noticed the way Allison’s and Kellan’s fingers were intertwined, understanding everything in a single glance. She sidled up to Ferdinand and nudged him. “I heard there are two lively deer on Sunset Hill, perfect for some photos the elders will love. How about we go track them down?”

With a quick wink, she hooked her arm through his and began pulling him down the path in the opposite direction.

Ferdinand, taken aback, glanced over his shoulder.

Wait — Sunset Hill had deer?

As Ferdinand and Rebecca vanished down the trail, silence once again settled over the area. Sunlight filtered softly through the branches, casting a warm, golden light that dappled the ground below.

“Allison, I felt truly happy just now,” Kellan said, standing beneath a tree with the sun brushing his shoulders, warming his usual cool demeanor. “It almost doesn’t feel real.”

He dropped his gaze, an unreadable expression crossing his face. At times, he couldn’t shake the worry that moments like these might dissolve like a dream.

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“We’re a couple now, so I can’t keep you as my secret boyfriend,” Allison teased, entwining her fingers with his and giving his hand a light squeeze.

Her voice was soft but steady as she smiled up at him. “And I’m right here with you. How could this not be real?” She couldn’t help but notice how Kellan’s usual aura of controlled danger seemed different now. In the past, every movement of his carried an air of intensity, projecting both power and restraint.

But now, after committing to their relationship, he had become the one who seemed to worry about losing this connection.

“We’ll take things at our own pace and see where it goes. If, at some point, it doesn’t work out…”

“It will,” Kellan interrupted, his tone unwavering. “For me, there’s no question. It can only be you.”

A warmth bloomed in Allison’s chest, her heart skipping a beat as the world seemed to slow around them. “Did anyone ever tell you that this lake resembles you?” she asked, nodding toward the deep, still lake nearby.

“Why’s that?” Kellan followed her gaze.

Allison slowly explained, “Because it’s calm on the surface, but underneath, there’s a depth, a pull that could sweep someone away if they’re not careful. That reminds me of your eyes.”

As she looked up, Allison missed a step on the uneven wooden stairs.

“Ah!” she gasped, stumbling backward.

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