Who do I ask for a reference after a layoff? - any advice?

My manager was laid off too and I am unsure who to use as a reference. I would rather hear the honest version than the polite one. I have one former client who liked my work. How do you ask politely?

I kept a note of my results so my references could be specific. They appreciated it.

A client reference worked well for me. It shows you deliver outside the company too.