Chapter: 157

Kaitlin decided it was best to avoid any misunderstandings.

Quintin caught on to the situation and let out a soft chuckle. "I have a couple of spots in the Pinewood. You're welcome to crash at either one if you'd like."

“Two places? Quintin, are you from a wealthy family or something?"

Phoebe asked eagerly before Kaitlin could respond.

Quintin laughed and waved off the notion. "Phoebe, you think too highly of me. I just came into some money a few years back. Besides, I rent those places. It's mostly to keep away from the paparazzi-back when I was somewhat of a celebrity."

Phoebe nodded, her curiosity satisfied. "Turns out being a celebrity might be tough."

"It's no walk in the park. Kaitlin, how about staying at my place for a few days? Pinewood is a little secluded, but it's calm and serene, ideal for some rest."

Feeling the weight of Quintin's expectant look, Kaitlin worried about appearing rude. “Quintin, staying together might not send the best message. Let's not."

Kaitlin still chose to decline.

Quintin's face fell, but he quickly recovered with a smile. "If you change your mind, just let me know. I'll come get you."

After thanking him, and once he had left, Phoebe sighed loudly next to her. “Some people don't realize how fortunate they are. If I had a guy that attentive, I'd never let him go."

Kaitlin was used to shrugging off such comments. This time, however, a mix of sadness and resentment lingered.

“Let's head home. Do you need to pack anything?" Phoebe observed her friend's silence and chose not to press the issue.

"No need."

"Okay, then use mine," Phoebe offered casually.

As they made their way back, Phoebe shifted the conversation to the recent dip in their studio's performance.

In Kaitlin's absence, the efficiency had slightly waned, fueling various rumors.

“Some think you've joined another studio, others believe you've gone overseas. Either way, it's all absurd. Don't these netizens understand what Oasis Studio represents?"

Kaitlin caressed her belly, remaining secluded to sidestep potential scandals.

The risk of someone resurrecting her past was a gamble she wasn't willing to take.

"Can you manage?" Kaitlin asked, concern lacing her tone.

"Kaitlin, come on, I'm not that fragile. I'm sharing this so you'll be cautious out there. Wear a hat and mask, maybe. What if you get mobbed by curious onlookers?"

Kaitlin nodded in agreement. "I'll keep that in mind."

“Just get through these next few days, and then I'll take you out for some fun. Forget the men, let them rot," Phoebe declared with a scoff, eliciting a chuckle from Kaitlin.