Chapter 236: Kellan’s first public appearance since the infamous kidnapping shifted the atmosphere the moment he entered. His stride was confident, each step demonstrating a strength that belied recent events. His impeccably tailored suit accentuated his broad shoulders and trim waist, radiating power. He seemed to command the very air around him, drawing all eyes like moths to a flame.

"Mr. Stevens," he said, "I'm here to deliver a gift on behalf of the Lloyd Group. Company matters delayed me slightly." With a subtle gesture, he presented the gift. "It seems I've arrived at the perfect moment," he continued. "And I'm honored to stand here in Ms. Clarke's defense."

Keanu inclined his head. "Mr. Lloyd, your support is most appreciated."

Inwardly, Keanu mused that Kellan was not someone to be trifled with in Ontdale. His dealings with the Lloyd family were infrequent, mostly confined to the older generation. But Kellan's presence today was more than a formality; it was a powerful statement, amplified as he moved closer to Allison.

Keanu pitied Colton for his blindness, for discarding what he now recognized as Allison's genuine affection. Seeing Kellan approach, Colton felt irritation and bitterness rise within him.

"Heh," Colton sneered, "Mr. Lloyd's words sound grand, but they hold little weight. After all, the whole world knows you openly pursued Allison, even in the media… during the kidnapping fiasco…" His words trailed off, choked by the memory. He recalled the moment Allison had nearly been lost forever at Devin's hands. He remembered her kindness, shining brightly throughout their years together, and his own hesitation at that critical moment. His legs had felt like lead; frozen in indecision, he had watched Kellan surge forward, willing to risk his life for her. Colton had been a mere spectator, unable to act when it mattered most.

A grim realization washed over him: if only he had acted, Allison might have given him another chance. But no, he wouldn't allow himself to regret it! He furrowed his brow, pushing the thought away.

Kellan's gaze turned cold. "Maybe, in your eyes, there's no such thing as decency, Mr. Stevens. But I recall telling you before—Ms. Clarke is my niece's pottery mentor. She's the one who introduced a renowned psychiatrist to help treat her autism. So yes, I admire someone as exceptional as she is. But why are you so quick to twist things? Just because your marriage is shaky doesn't mean everyone else lives in that shadow."

Colton stood stunned, speechless under the weight of the insult. Suddenly, he remembered Allison mentioning her connection to the Lloyd family—a detail he'd carelessly dismissed.

Melany, equally stung, added, "Mr. Lloyd, you have a clever tongue, but what proof do you have that Allison was at your family's estate that day?" She had never faced such a sharp opponent, and it irked her to see someone of Kellan's caliber supporting Allison. Even if she couldn't bring Allison down today, she was determined to damage Lindy's reputation.

Kellan’s lips curled into a mocking smile. "Oh, Ms. Clarke was definitely at the Lloyd estate. We have security footage to prove it. As for the man seen in that footage… well, I'm not sure who he is, but let's just say my assistant has a knack for retrieving such data." Kellan's gaze flicked coldly toward Colton. "Recovering that video would be child's play. And if it clears Ms. Clarke's name, consider it a favor. The real question is: does Mr. Stevens have the courage to see the truth?"