Chapter 293: Don't Worry, Allison

"I promise I won't cause any trouble," Gordon said. His eyes shimmered with a captivating light as he smiled. A youthful energy, a certain liveliness, surrounded him. When he looked at Allison, it felt as if the world faded away, as if no one else existed in his gaze.

But immediately after speaking, a cold shiver ran down his spine as a cold gaze settled upon him. Ignoring it, Gordon maintained his cheerful demeanor. He wasn't easily intimidated.

"You really have the nerve to say that," Kellan scoffed, glancing casually at his watch. The air around him grew frigid. "If you're in the mood for childish games, you can wait until the gala is over. Allison and I have important matters to discuss, and I doubt she has time for small talk or reminiscing."

He paused, then turned to Allison. His shadow stretched long beneath the soft glow of the chandeliers. "Isn't that right, Ms. Clarke?" Kellan knew Allison wouldn't entertain idle chitchat with just anyone; she wouldn't tolerate unwanted attention. If a man pushed his luck, she'd likely snap his arm and feed him to the sharks without a second thought. She was no damsel in distress.

Allison's slightly furrowed brow revealed that Gordon's presence was a surprise, even to her. Kellan's comment diffused the tension, albeit with a sharp edge. Gordon felt the sting but refused to back down, his smile unwavering. He knew Kellan was ridiculing him, mocking him as an immature brat unworthy of standing beside Allison.

Before he could respond, Allison nodded calmly. "The gala's about to start. Kellan and I have things to attend to. I'll come find you later when we're free." She hadn't expected to see Gordon there, and with Kellan present, many things couldn't be said openly. Her words were a subtle promise—they would catch up later. Feeling guilty for standing him up repeatedly, she softened her tone. "You've been working hard lately. Thank you for your dedication." Her gaze softened, her mesmerizing eyes momentarily melting her usual reserve.

Gordon's heart fluttered; a dizzying rush of happiness flooded him. "Yeah… yes, of course," he stammered. He'd hoped for a longer conversation, a chance to get closer to his boss. But this single compliment—simple as it was—lifted his spirits.

"Don't say that! I'll always—" He coughed, interrupting himself. "It's alright, really. We can catch up tonight if you have time!" In his joy, he almost revealed their secrets, but that didn't bother him, nor did Kellan's piercing gaze. Praise from Allison was rare and precious. Most people knew her as the founder of the Cobweb, the shadowy figure known as Scarlet Snake. She was mysterious, elusive, and never one to offer casual flattery.

For a moment, Gordon forgot his grievances from the past few days. The times he'd grumbled about her broken promises vanished. He'd complained to his subordinates, "The boss is impossible. She says she'll visit, but she's stood me up at least three times already. It's torture—cruel, even." His colleagues had only laughed, saying someone like Allison wouldn't meet with underlings unless she chose to. But now, she was speaking to him directly, promising to reconnect.