Chapter 296: Allison, am I interrupting you? Floyds gaze was downcast, his expression masked by the glint of his gold-rimmed glasses.
Its just... its my first tat a dinner like this, so Id feel more comfortable staying close to you.
His voice carried a hint of unease.
Gordon saw right through the act and arched a brow.
Dr.
Pierce, youre a top-tier physician.
If you claim youve never been to a banquet before, no ones going to buy it.
He smirked, his tone pointed.
No one could match Floyds ability to play his cards so close to the chest.
Kellan, ever calm, added, Indeed.
Dr.
Pierce only skips events that arent worth his time.
Its not like hes short on invitations.
Floyd pressed his lips together, momentarily at a loss for words.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtAllison, however, stepped in.
Hes more focused on his research and isnt big on socializing.
Its not surprising he hasnt been to many dinners.
That, at least, was true.
Back when she shared an apartment with Floyd in Leswington, he was always a solitary figure, polite yet distant.
Even with his gentle smile, he kept others at arms length.
But this is a charity event.
No need to feel out of place, she continued smoothly.
Mr.
Lloyd and I were just invited as guests ourselves.
Floyd hesitated but finally nodded.
I see.
In truth, when Ferdinand had sent the invitation a few days ago, Floyd hadnt even considered attending.
It was only when he heard that Allison would be here as Kellans companion that he made up his mind. Ultimately, it was just because he wasnt ready to let go.
Kellans voice cut through his thoughts, indifferent yet laced with underlying weight.
No one knows this place better than I do.
So, Dr.
Pierce, if youd like a tour, Id be happy to show you around.
The smile on Kellans lips was polite, but the pressure radiating from him was unmistakable.
Floyd stiffened, sensing that showing him around might involve something far from pleasant.
Gordon broke into a laugh, easing the tension.
Allison, since Mr.
Lloyd is being so generous, why dont we all take a look around later? He gave her an exaggerated, pitiful look. Ive been devastated lately by someone who keeps standingup.
Why dont you have a drink withand cheerup? With his youthful face and mock-hurt expression, he looked almost too pitiful to refuse.
Almost.
He always knew Allison would have plenty of admirers, but he hadnt expected two to show up tonight. Naturally, he had to seize this opportunity.
Allison raised a brow, unimpressed.
If you were truly heartbroken, you wouldnt be here.
Why dont the three of you get better acquainted then? Allison kept her distance, her gaze cool and unreadable.
But then, unexpectedly, Kellan cleared his throat, his hand moving to his shoulder.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmHer expression shifted, concern flashing briefly in her eyes.
Mr.
Lloyd, is your gunshot wound still not healed? Did you reopen it? The memory of the kidnapping incident resurfaced, sending a shiver down her spine.
Kellan, though, remained as composed as ever.
Its nothing serious.
Youve been working hard lately you should get srest.
Ill go find Ferdinand later.
Your friend might be there too, and I have a few few questions for her.
Allison blinked, suddenly recalling one of her reasons for attending tonight gathering information on Rebecca and Ferdinand. Then lets go together.
She waved a casual hand at the two men behind her.
You two carry on.
Mr.
Lloyd and I will be back shortly.
Floyd and Gordon exchanged a glance.
Despite being strangers, their eyes mirrored the ssurprise.
So, playing the victim didnt work? ly Kellan had actually. ally managed to turn the tables and sweep her away with that approach. He was craftier than either of them had given him credit for.