Chapter 347: When Ken spoke of his family, the usual coldness in his expression seemed to soften, tinged with a quiet loneliness.


    So, theres no need to pay any attention to Jims nonsense, he said.


    This isnt an engagement token meant for a future wife; its nothing but a jest.


    You shouldnt feel burdened by it.


    But in truth, after surviving countless trials and narrowly escaping death together, Ken felt that the only thing of real value he could offer Allison was this ne.


    Though Allison didntck wealth, the ne held sentimental value, deeply tied to her mother.


    Allison frowned slightly.


    I cant Before she could finish, Ken pushed the box back toward her, resolute.


    Its better if you hold onto it for now, Ms.


    rke, he insisted.


    You can give it back once youve found your mother.


    In reality, Kens mother had indeed intended this ne for his future wife.


    It was far from a simple jest.


    Kens gaze shifted to Allisons slender neck, and for a moment, he imagined her wearing the ne.


    Had it not been for her, he might have been blown to pieces by the criminals explosives.


    The ne seemed like the only fitting token of gratitude he could offer her.


    Nearby, Gordon leaned back with his arms crossed, a yful grin on his face.


    Tsk, if Mr.


    Lloyds feeling generous, why not hand it over to me instead? Ken shot him a cool, detached nce.


    If youre that desperate, why not ask your mother for one? You! Gordons casual demeanor instantly vanished, and his face darkened in an instant.


    In fact, Gordons birth mother had died from hemorrhaging the night he was born, and his father and stepmother had sent him abroad when he was barely a teenager.


    Sensing the rising tension between them, Allison sighed, her frown deepening.


    Both of you, knock it off.


    At her words, the atmosphere shifted.


    The two men, previously on the verge of conflict, fell silent.


    Ill hold onto the ne for now, Allison said, tucking the box away carefully.


    If I uncover any clues, Ill return it to you.


    Her tone was firm, and she added, Its gettingte, no need to wait up for me.


    Allison rarely drank to excess, even on long nights.


    Moreover, her conversation with Gordon would likely focus on Cobweb, and she had no intention of lingering longer than necessary.


    Ken didnt respond, though his face, half-hidden in shadow, betrayed nothing.


    Its going to rain tonight, Ms.


    rke.


    Dont forget an umbre.


    Alright.


    Allison found his suddenment strange, but then she watched as Ken pocketed his car keys and headed toward the parking lot.


    The eyesore is finally gone, Gordons mood brightened, his smirk returning.


    Youve been workingte; you must be starving.


    Ive arranged for a top chef to prepare a meal at the top floor suite, and of course, Ive got your favorite champagne on standby.


    If youre feeling tired, theres a private room where you can rest.


    It was clear that Gordon had gone to great lengths to prepare for their meeting, especially since it was his first time alone with Allison.


    No need for such trouble.


    I have some matters regarding Cobweb to discuss with you.


    Allisons focus was more on business than personal pleasantries.


    But as she reached the top floor, she realized that Gordons so-called private room was far more than just a secluded space; it was avish penthouse suite, decorated in alternating shades of blue and pink.


    The dining table was already set with an array of exquisite dishes, and a few slender white candles flickered softly beside it, casting delicate shadows along the walls.


    In this dim, flickering light, the distant view of the sea added a calming touch, enhancing the peaceful atmosphere.


    Why dont you have something to eat first? Gordon suggested.


    Despite hisid-back demeanor, there was a surprising level of thoughtfulness in his actions.


    He pulled out a chair for Allison and even cut her a slice of steak.


    Since I wasnt sure about your preferences, I had the chef prepare a bit of everything.


    I hope you find something you like.


    When he smiled, his eyes sparkled with warmth, like stars in a clear night sky.


    Its quite good.


    I appreciate the thought, Allison replied politely.


    Truth be told, Allison wasnt one to fuss over food.


    In past missions, shed eaten far worse even insects in a pinch, just to survive.


    So, this spread of seafood and steaks felt like an absolute luxury.


    By the way, she said, her voice cool and edged with intent as she carefully sliced into her steak, I need you to look into the remnants of the Mafia on the Burned Inds, a fictional ce.


    If any of them are still lurking around, I want to know where theyre hiding.


    Each word was deliberate, her tone sharp enough to cut through the flickering ambiance.


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