Secrets Of The Neglected Wife: When Her True Colors Shine

Chapter 284: Mr.

Lloyd, your good friend Ferdinand certainly knows how to make things happen.

Who else could organize a charity dinner with such finesse? Allison asked subtly, her curiosity simmering beneath the surface.

Hes not exactly your typical advertiser, is he? Theres a political air about him.

In Ontdale, anyone capable of orchestrating a charity dinner and auction on their own must be well-connected with those in power.

Allison had long suspected there was more to Ferdinand than met the eye.

Shed done her homework and knew that he ran the largest advertising firm in the world, though he operated in the shadows for others as well.

The thought of Ferdinands hidden connections whisked her back to the Burned Islands incident, when Ferdinand had swooped in with his crew to tidy up the mess.

His close ties to Kellan didnt escape her notice either.

As she smiled, Allison was secretly gauging Kellans reaction, eager to unravel his secrets.

For the first time, she found herself facing a rival who seemed to be her equal in so many ways.

They shared challenges and triumphs in their disabilities and in the world of short-track speed skating, forging a connection that felt both harmonious and adversarial.

The Blakely family is loaded and influential.

Its no surprise they have such connections, Kellan remarked nonchalantly.

But Ms.

Clarke, you seem rather well-versed in these affairs.

Ive just picked up a thing or two, Allison replied lightly.

Is that so? Kellans lips curled into a slight smile, intrigue flickering in his eyes.

He watched her closely, recognizing the subtlety behind her probing.

was ready to

their secrets

her chin resting on her hand, Allison tilted her head

much

you have something lovely to reward me with? Though she had agreed to help, she was no

standing lack female companionship? As the heir to the Lloyd fortune, even if women in Ontdale were put off by his unpredictable nature, they wouldnt

had a reputation for attending dinners alone long before he crossed paths with

else would the rumors of his aloofness toward women have gained traction? He didnt need to worry about

the game, yet she kept her thoughts to herself, preferring this playful banter to

Ms.

due time, Kellan said, glancing at the delicate porcelain cup in

his gaze

you can bid on anything your heart desires, and Ill gladly foot

Mr.

broke

family has wealth to spare; I dare you to test it, Kellan replied,

but smile, recognizing the

are indeed generous

she added,

list in his hand, carefully selecting the finest dinner invitation

had hit the nail on the head; Ferdinand wasnt

pulling strings

to wear his heart on his sleeve, but he was

wanted to present her with a gift, but nothing ever seemed

to choose

Allison, oblivious to Kellans deeper thoughts,

charmer among the young women, with suitors

were at the ward door lingered in her mindthere was an

Rebecca had been groomed as the heir of the Green family, her

about her well-being and more about

probing was clear, and Kellan caught

hunt for information for