Chapter 227

Allison's tone was sharp, cutting through the tension like a knife. But it was the truth.

"Mr. Lloyd," she began, "if you think simply taking care of Lorna for the rest of her life is enough, then why even bother treating her autism? Wouldn't it be simpler to let her remain a lifeless doll? No one wants to see their loved ones suffer, and that much is clear."

Allison held his gaze, her voice steady and unwavering. "Maybe, deep down, you want Lorna to live a normal life, too. To talk to others her age, to overcome her trauma instead of retreating into her own world."

Her words were brutally honest. Others might have hesitated to speak so plainly to him, but Allison wasn't afraid to pry open a part of Kellan's heart he had long kept hidden.

"Yes, I want her to get better," he murmured, his voice tight with emotion. "But I don't want her to be put in harm's way."

Allison's response was swift, unflinching. "Can you guarantee she'll never face danger for the rest of her life, Mr. Lloyd?"

Kellan knew he couldn't. He'd be lying to himself if he thought otherwise. Especially after he was gone, Lorna would be left alone, more vulnerable than ever.

Allison's eyes remained steady, her gaze unblinking. "A lifetime is too long. I've never trusted promises made by others. You say you'll protect her forever, but what happens when you can't? When she's left to fend for herself, the fall will be that much harder."

Her gaze softened, but her voice remained firm. "If it were me, I'd rather become strong enough to protect myself, no matter what. Being able to survive on your own—that's the only true security."

Allison had never believed in empty promises of protection. She had always adhered to the principle of securing her own position with her own hands.

Kellan's expression darkened, a shadow of something unresolved crossing his face. He knew she was right, but he had never been ready to confront it. The harsh, rigorous path was a necessary part of growth.

Allison smiled faintly. "Of course, that's just my opinion. After all, I'm a free spirit who prefers the untamed wilds over a controlled, sheltered life." She glanced at Lorna, who was gently dozing off. "No matter what you decide, there will always be risks. But since you're her family, the choice is ultimately yours."

"Thank you, Ms. Clarke." Kellan nodded, understanding the weight of her words. No plan was perfect, and no amount of protection could shield Lorna forever. It had always been wishful thinking.

"I'll consider it seriously, but not now. She's still too young."

Allison's lips curved into a soft smile. "You're right. There's no rush. You have time."

Even as she spoke, Kellan couldn't help but wonder what Allison had been through to be able to speak such seemingly cruel, yet profoundly true words—as if she'd lived through it all herself.

While he was deep in thought, his phone rang. He picked it up, listening intently. His expression shifted to one of irritation.

"Alright, I understand," he said, his tone sharp.

After hanging up, he turned back to Allison, his voice now grave. "Your ex-husband and Melanie are stirring up trouble again."

Allison continued eating calmly, picking up a piece of fish, but paused when she noticed a bone. With a quiet sigh, she set it aside.

"What are they scheming this time?" she asked, her voice tinged with annoyance. She was exhausted by their constant antics. Despite everything, Colton had saved her life. She couldn't retaliate fully, but that didn't mean she'd just take their abuse without a fight.

"Colton found a lawyer to sue you," Kellan replied, a bitter smile curling on his lips. "Coincidentally, he tried to hire my firm. Sherman overheard it while picking up some financial reports." Kellan's eyes narrowed. "Although my firm didn't take the case, it doesn't mean others won't. So be prepared."