Chapter 577: Chapter 577

Chapter 577:

“Doesn’t affect me. As long as the casino settles what they owe me, that’s all I care about. Money matters more than an ex-husband.”

Kellan’s shoulders relaxed a bit, realizing she had clearly moved on.

Allison took a sip, letting the silence settle. “Having money really does make life simpler, doesn’t it?”

“True,” he agreed, quietly observing her. “But it’s even better when you have someone to share it with.” He paused, then offered, “Want to take a walk around Sunset Hill this afternoon?”

His tone was casual, yet his fingers flexed slightly, betraying a subtle tension as their eyes met.

Allison stretched languidly, a small smile playing on her lips. “Perfect. Could use a little stretching.”

When Allison and Kellan arrived at Sunset Hill, the sun lingered just above the horizon, casting a golden glow over the lush, green trees. The whole scene looked like it had been painted with the richest, warmest colors.

“There’s a lake nearby, beautiful and blue,” Allison murmured, her eyes drifting toward the woods. “I went there once, ages ago.”

She walked gracefully with measured steps along the winding pebble path.

“I walked this same path back then. I was so little then. Maybe three or four? I remember my mom holding my hand, telling me to slow down, to be careful not to trip. Funny, the things we forget and remember. I can’t recall everything from back then, but her voice? It’s like I can still hear it — soft, warm, like she’s right here beside me.”

Once, years ago, when she’d lost her sight and Colton had come to her rescue, they’d promised to meet here again. She’d clung to that promise, waiting for this unforgettable moment she thought she would remember forever. But life had played its cruel hand, and the man he’d become was no longer someone worth her affection.

“Someday soon, you’ll definitely see your mom again,” Kellan said, his tone heavy with the weight of his own memories.

“The nursing home sent word that my grandmother’s condition has improved a lot this month. A few days from now, when she’s fully alert, you could ask her anything you want.”

Since they were just out for a walk, he wore a dark shirt, casually unbuttoned at the collar, which, paired with the sunlight casting long shadows across his frame, lent a rare ease to his normally reserved presence.

Allison gave a small, thoughtful nod. “Floyd mentioned there’s progress on treatments for Alzheimer’s. They’re working on medications to keep her alert as long as possible. I think—”

A familiar voice rang out from behind them before she could finish her sentence.

“Allison, my darling!”

She turned just in time to be wrapped up in a warm hug. Rebecca’s grin was as bright as her laugh. “I missed you so much! And tell me the truth — when did you and Mr. Lloyd get here?” she asked with twinkling eyes.

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