Chapter 292: Gordon leaned closer to Allison, a mix of eagerness and nostalgia in his eyes, as if he were about to shake her hand again.

"Allison, I've missed you more than you can imagine!" If Floyd's warmth was a soft breeze, Gordon's smile was a burst of sunshine after a storm—a perfect blend of charm and youthful exuberance. Especially after those heartfelt words, he looked almost unbearably pathetic.

However, Kellan, standing firmly beside her, didn't release Allison's hand.

"No matter who you think you are, it doesn't give you the right to act recklessly or touch someone you shouldn't," Kellan shot back, locking eyes with Gordon. His gaze was dark, almost unreadable.

But Gordon wasn't fazed. He simply reached out and took Allison's other wrist, his smile still innocent, almost playful.

"Reckless? Hardly," he replied. "I've known Allison for a long time, so what's wrong with catching up with an old friend?" Gordon's expression was pure innocence. "So, Mr. Lloyd, I'd say this is none of your business." Turning back to Allison, he added, "Right, Allison? We're good friends, after all."

At that moment, both men held her wrists lightly. The grip wasn't forceful, but the tension between them was undeniable, their gazes sharp and unwavering. The air tightened with unspoken words. In the dim light, Allison's face remained calm, but the tension was palpable. Kellan and Gordon were two forces at odds, their eyes on her, waiting, anticipating her choice in the heavy silence.

But Allison chose neither side. "If you two have this much time to bicker, maybe you can chat here and try to make friends. I've got more important things to deal with!" With that, she easily slipped her hands free. Turning, she waved lazily. "I'll leave you to it."

As Allison left, Gordon froze, realization dawning on him. "Allison, I'm sorry," he blurted, his voice sincere. "I just… I was excited to see you. I got ahead of myself. I didn't mean to upset you." It was the most genuine thing he'd said all night.

Over the years, Gordon's attitude toward her had shifted. What began as youthful rebellion had transformed into admiration, even longing. When he learned, through whispers and rumors, that Allison had married, it had crushed him. But it also made him confront his feelings head-on. In some twisted corner of his mind, he'd even considered becoming her secret lover. Moral lines seemed irrelevant when it came to Allison. When news of her divorce reached him, it felt like fate giving him a second chance. And now, here she was, and it felt unreal.

The night shrouded Allison's expression, making it difficult to read her thoughts. She didn't respond directly. "Go on, enjoy dinner. We'll discuss your matters later."

Gordon's face lit up. "Okay!" Anyone who knew him well would have been stunned by his eagerness and compliance; Gordon had a reputation as a troublemaker. But in front of Allison, he was as docile as a lamb.

Kellan tossed back his drink, finishing his tequila in one smooth motion. "There's nothing for me to discuss with some stranger. Dinner's about to begin. Let's go."

Gordon's innocent expression became even more pronounced. "I must admit, Mr. Lloyd, I envy you. I don't have any talents. I'm no good at anything—not even something as simple as social dancing. I don't even have a date for tonight's event." His long lashes fluttered as he turned to Allison, his eyes wide with subtle pleading. "So, Allison, would you mind if I joined you?"