Chapter: 128

However, his actions failed to meet her expectations.

As their vacation neared its end, Kaitlin was dismayed to find the recent sweetness dissolving into nothingness at that moment.

That evening, Kaitlin shut Alan out, his interaction with Ashley being the final straw.

The following morning, Kaitlin indulged in a late start as was her norm.

Upon waking, she found Alan and Ashley outside, waiting.

Ashley had slipped into a tropical dress, radiant and graceful, her hair cascading softly.

Her beauty was undeniable. That explained why Alan couldn't get over her.

“Did you get a good night's sleep? You seem a bit worn out. Why not come down for some breakfast?" Ashley offered warmly, her eyes twinkling with a seemingly genuine smile as she made small talk.

Her tone was so heartfelt that any outsider would mistake them for old friends.

Maintaining a respectful distance, Ashley expressed just enough concern to remain polite without crossing any Lines.

Kaitlin was unwilling to entertain this facade of innocence.

"Is it time to go?" she asked abruptly.

Alan nodded. "Won't you grab some breakfast first? I could have it brought up to your room if you prefer."

"No need, I just had some milk," Kaitlin replied, pulling sunglasses from her bag and slipping them on, her desire to leave palpable.

Each moment near Ashley soured further.

Throughout the flight, Kaitlin donned an eye mask, shutting herself off from any dialogue with Alan.

His face wore a look of concern as he recognized that Ashley's presence stirred jealousy in Kaitlin.

Her pregnancy only heightened her sensitivity, making each interaction more fraught than the last.

Upon their arrival in Osewood, Phoebe was already waiting at the airport to pick up Kaitlin.

Kaitlin climbed into her best friend's car, not bothering to bid Alan farewell, and instructed the driver to pull away immediately.

As the car began to move, Phoebe only managed a quick glance at the woman accompanying Alan.

“What happened?" Phoebe asked, her voice laced with concern. "You seemed fine when you left. Now you return, and there's another woman with Alan? Is she his new lover?"

“That woman is Ashley Willis," Kaitlin revealed, her tone flat.

Phoebe's jaw dropped in disbelief.