Chapter 311: Apologies for the disturbance, everyone.


    Its only natural that tension builds when theres a crowd.


    The auction willmence shortly, so feel free to head to the adjoining hall and see if anything piques your interest.


    As the host of this charity banquet, Ferdinand couldnt afford to let the awkwardness linger.


    Since his friends had faced little consequence, they quickly tidied up the scene.


    With a genial smile, Ferdinand added, Stay tuned, folks.


    Unlike the charity event, the auction promised to showcase rare treasures that could yield considerable profit.


    As the staff led guests into the hall behind, many without auction invitationsdue to their lower standinglingered in the front, idly chatting away.


    Once everything was back in order, Ferdinand approached Gordon with a warm smile, extending his hand.


    Mr.


    Herbert, its a pleasure to cross paths once again.


    Despite the friendly tone, the two men sized each other up with unmistakable scrutiny.


    It was a game of subtlety, and the tension was almost palpable.


    If memory serves, your father is running for office next month, with a promotion nearly guaranteed.


    Let me offer you my congrattions in advance.


    Everyone knew the Herbert family stood at the pinnacle of Ontdale society.


    Ferdinandspany had, in some way, crossed them, and this g was an orchestrated opportunity for a face-to-face with Gordon.


    Allison stood nearby, keenly aware of the hiddenyers in Ferdinands words.


    She turned to Gordon, a gentle smile ying on her lips.


    This is Ferdinand, someone I happened to meet here.


    Wanting to avoid getting entangled in their back-and-forth dealings, she stepped aside.


    You two go ahead and talk.


    Ill catch up with you at the auctionter.


    Gordon felt a slight twinge of frustration at her words.


    Allison, weve barely started talking, and youre already leaving me stranded? But Allison was unmoved.


    If its important, say it now.


    Otherwise, Ill see youter.


    With a reluctant sigh, Gordon nodded, blinking with a hint of resignation.


    Fine.


    Ill find you once Im done here.


    Despite his unwillingness, Gordon had a habit of yielding to Allison.


    His gaze shifted toward Ken, standing silently beside her, his mood quickly souring.


    Mr.


    Lloyd, I see youre Allisonspanion for the evening, Gordon said, his tone edged with a cold menace.


    If anything happens to her, Ill hold you personally responsible, Lloyd family or not.


    Gordons arrogance always seemed to surface when Allison wasnt directly involved, and tonight was no exception.


    Ken, unfazed, shot him a t look.


    Are you really that dense? Do you think Ms.


    rke is the type whod let herself be pushed around? The sharp retort left Gordon momentarily speechless.


    Seeing the tension written across Gordons otherwise handsome face, Allison couldnt stifle a softugh.


    Rx, Gordon.


    You know full well Im not someone easily cornered.


    She hadnt expected Gordon to be even more rebellious in person than he appeared in Cobweb.


    There was a youthful rasp in his voice as he replied, Allison, Im just looking out for you.


    Ill catch up with youter.


    Though he felt a pang of reluctance, Gordon knew Allison didnt want to be dragged into his business dealings.


    He had important matters to discuss with Ferdinand, after all.


    As Allison and Ken turned to leave, Gordons gaze lingered on her retreating figure, his thoughts shifting to the snake-shaped ne she wore.


    What was so special about that piece? Allison was a renowned designer, nevercking in fine jewelry.


    But seeing her wear that ne made him pause.


    He should give her something even more precious, something that would outshine anything she already owned.


    Two staff members opened the door for her, and Allison stepped into the waiting area, her heels clicking softly against the polished floor.


    The room itself was understated, not overly luxurious, but filled with an air of quiet sophistication.


    Around fifty well-dressed men and women were scattered throughout, their outfits dripping with opulence.


    Allison took a seat, ncing around with casual ease.


    Ferdinand certainly knows how to cater to the business elite, she mused.


    Its no wonder so many people hold him in such high regard.


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