Chapter 272: Nova slapped Hoyt's cheek sharply. Without hesitation, she grabbed his hand, her brows furrowing.

"Your father is already drowning in work every day. Do you really want to add unnecessary headaches to his load?" Her tone was as sharp as her instincts.

Over the years, she'd studied Kellan enough to know he rarely missed a step. If he'd summoned Brook, he'd already put measures in place, perhaps even piecing together part of the kidnapping puzzle. He wouldn't have asked unless he had an advantage.

Her gaze narrowed on Kellan, calculating. "We came unannounced, I admit, and yes, we didn't bring gifts for Mr. Pierce and Ms. Clarke. But we'll make it up next time."

Nova swallowed her anger, forcing a smile that didn't reach her eyes. "I was upset by your behavior. If Brook saw you two at each other's throats, it would break his heart. So, how about you both take a step back?" (She was actually preparing to corner Kellan.)

"Kellan, you're the elder, the firstborn. No matter what Hoyt has done, it's on you to show restraint, especially in front of the servants. Hitting him only shames him. Let's both apologize." She sighed, strategically retreating to gain the upper hand. "From now on, remember you're brothers."

Every word dripped with forced concern, but her real aim was to unsettle Kellan.

Hoyt, still smarting from the slap, bristled. "Mom, why should I apologize to him?" he protested, his voice tight with frustration.

Nova's eyes flashed. "Because he's your older brother," she snapped. (Her words were for Brook's ears; he valued appearances above all else.) Even though Hoyt had been slapped, Nova aimed to push Kellan to the brink. And as expected, Kellan's face darkened with each mention of their brotherly bond.

But then, unexpectedly, Allison picked up her coffee cup and hurled its contents across the room. The cup shattered. Effortlessly playing the wicked woman, she feigned surprise. "Oops, seems my grip isn't what it used to be. Did I splash anyone?" (Had appearances not been a concern, she would have used something far more damaging.)

Allison had intended to share her clues with Kellan, but it was clear he'd already followed the trail. He knew Nova and Hoyt were involved in the kidnapping. Aside from the port security footage, all other evidence had been destroyed.

Allison wasn't kind-hearted. There were things Kellan couldn't or wouldn't do, but she could execute them effortlessly. Her sugary-sweet smile held a razor-sharp edge.

"But as Nova wisely said, peace is best," Allison said calmly, wiping coffee from her fingers, echoing Nova's trap. "Let's apologize. Spilling coffee was a harmless mistake. And I'm sure Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd won't bear a grudge."

Her dazzling smile hid words that cut like glass. Her charm felt lethal.