Chapter 351: Allison crossed to the other side of the hall, hoping to avoid the rain.


    Perhaps because the downpour had grown heavier, no one seemed to ept her ride request after she hailed a taxi.


    Frowning, she was about to call Reba when she suddenly noticed the gentle cover of an umbre above her head.


    The rains too much.


    Lets head to the garage first.


    Ken stood beside her, holding a ck umbre.


    Under the dim streetlights, the soft glow filtered through the rain, casting a warm light over him that made his presence both cool and irresistibly alluring.


    Allisons gaze shifted to the hand holding the umbre.


    It was slender, with well-defined fingers, as he angled it slightly to cover her more.


    She was safely under the shelter of the eaves.


    He stood out in the drizzle.


    Yet, the umbre connected them, pulling them close beneath its canopy.


    Slightly taken aback, Allison looked up and asked, Have you been here all along? The clock inside the hall showed it was just past three in the morning.


    In a few hours, dawn would break.


    Got held up for a bit, Ken replied, his voice low and husky.


    His fingers tightened around the umbre handle as he tilted it closer to her.


    Besides, I did promise Id drive you home, Ms.


    rke.


    In truth, Ken had been waiting for a long time long enough to see the lights on the top floor flicker on and off; the cigarette in his hand had burned down to ashes, some of which fell onto his fingers, leaving faint red marks.


    But Ken hadnt seemed to notice.


    If Allison and Gordon really had something going on, he knew he had no right to ask.


    Thank you, Mr.


    Lloyd, Allison said softly.


    Unaware of his thoughts, she stepped forward, slipping under the umbre beside him.


    Her high heels sshed into puddles, creating gentle ripples.


    The faint scent of bamboo mixed with a hint of smoke emanated from Ken.


    It was unexpectedly pleasant, carrying the allure of a mature man.


    Or perhaps it was his six-foot-two frame, entuated by the tailored suit and tie, that made him seem so reassuring.


    Did you have something to drink tonight, Ms.


    rke? he asked.


    Just a bit of champagne, she replied as they walked side by side.


    Gordon cant handle alcohol.


    Hes still out cold and probably wont wake up until morning.


    Ive arranged for someone to keep an eye on him.


    It was a simple statement, but Kens tense shoulders seemed to rx a little as he heard it.


    I see, he murmured.


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