Chapter 256

Colton, who had initially found the Lloyd family irritating, now wore a much more serene expression. "I appreciate your generosity," he said. "If the Stevens Group ever finds itself in need, we might consider a partnership."

Nova, ever the picture of politeness, even spoke on behalf of the unpredictable Kellan, showcasing her keen emotional intelligence. Colton couldn't help but feel slightly pleased with her composure. Nova smiled. "Of course. We should be heading out now. Take care, Mrs. Lloyd," Colton offered as a farewell.

"Thank you, but there's no need to see us off," Nova responded with a gentle smile that lingered until she was safely inside the car. The moment the door shut, her smile evaporated, replaced by a cold and severe expression.

As soon as Hoyt slid into the passenger seat, a sharp slap rang out, landing precisely on his cheek. "How dare you air your grievances so openly in front of them?" Nova scolded, her voice steely. "What kind of fool have I raised after all these years?" Her disappointment was palpable, hanging heavy in the air. "We finally have an opportunity, and if you even think about messing this up… just wait until we're home!" Hoyt, his cheek red and stinging, remained silent.

Sensing his inner turmoil, Nova reached out to adjust his collar, her expression softening. Her tone became sweet as honey. To anyone not in the loop, she would seem the picture of a caring mother. "Honey," she said, "that Melany girl is nothing but trouble. Keep your distance. If you get involved in any scandal with her, you'll regret it."

Hoyt clenched his teeth, the weight of her words settling in. He knew his mother saw through him, knew how he had looked at Melany, desire gleaming in his eyes. But Nova wasn't one to tolerate such risks. She could accept her son's dalliances, but not if they tainted the family name. "I understand, Mom," he replied through gritted teeth.

Meanwhile, in the VIP room, Allison was on her way to find Kellan when she stepped in and immediately felt the cold chill of his presence. His anger was palpable, hanging in the air like a thunderstorm on the brink of bursting. "If anything happens to Lorna, there will be hell to pay!" Kellan's voice was low and dangerous. He pressed a hand to his forehead, his rage darkening his features.

"What exactly happened?" The subordinates knelt before him, their heads hung low. Shame weighed them down, and they dared not raise their eyes to explain.

"Sir, Sherman and Lorna were in the lounge together. Everything seemed fine, but when we checked again, Lorna had vanished!" Sherman, also kneeling, looked stricken with guilt. "I'm so sorry, sir. Lorna said she was thirsty, so I went to get her some water. By the time I returned… she was gone."

Kellan's head throbbed, but he fought to stay calm. "Find her. Immediately!" Herman nodded, still bowing low. "Our team has already secured the venue, inside and out. There's no trace, but I'll have them cross-check every vehicle that's come and gone. We'll get the license plates for comparison."

Just then, there was a knock, and Allison stepped into the room. "If it's not too much trouble, Mr. Lloyd, I'd like to help." She hadn't anticipated things going off the rails, let alone Lorna disappearing so mysteriously. The storm in Kellan's eyes seemed to settle slightly at her presence.

"I appreciate it, Ms. Clarke."

"No need for thanks," Allison replied smoothly. "I care about Lorna as well." With that, she began to survey the room. She moved with calm precision, her fingers trailing along the edges of the sofa before lifting them to her nose. Her expression grew thoughtful. "There's a sedative in the air. A new formula, one that works almost instantly. The drug's effects, however, are brief. It evaporates in about an hour, so the dosage would have to be very specific."

Suddenly, a spark of realization crossed her face. "Check the vehicles that passed through the city about an hour ago—focus on those heading north."