Chapter: 158
Despite her rising fame, Phoebe's blunt and sincere nature remained intact.
As Kaitlin's smile widened, she pondered deeply.
Perhaps Phoebe was truly the only one in this world who genuinely cared for her.
Meanwhile, Alan, having learned of the commotion at home from the butler, hurried back.
Inside, Ashley was tucked away in her room, crying softly. When she saw Alan, her immediate response was to apologize.
"Alan, this is on me. I shouldn't have caused that misunderstanding with Kaitlin."
Alan's brow furrowed. “Why didn't you clear things up right away?"
Ashley shook her head. "I tried to explain, but Kaitlin just walked away before I could say anything. She didn't even give me a chance. Do you think she got the wrong idea because I'm staying here? But I have no other choice. If my ex-husband finds me, he'll imprison me again."
Tears streamed down Ashley's face as she desperately clung to her last excuse.
"Alan, let me talk to Kaitlin. I know I can make her understand. Just please, don't ask me to leave yet. I have nowhere else that's safe."
Her hand gripped Alan's sleeve, a stark contrast to her usual prideful air.
Alan sighed deeply. “I'll find another safe place for you. I'll arrange for someone to escort you to and from work. There won't be any issues. However, it's not right for you to stay here any Longer.”
Ashley's grip tightened, and her eyes brimmed with tears. "Alan, are you trying to get rid of me?"
Alan, drained and unable to muster the energy to soothe Ashley, was more concerned about Kaitlin's well-being, fearing the stress might be too much for her.
“Pack your things. Someone will come for you soon."
He turned away, leaving Ashley behind as he approached the Oasis Studio.
At the entrance, the security guard halted him. "Ms. Gilbert and Ms. Tucker have instructed us not to let you in."
Alan's expression darkened. "Where is Kaitlin?"
“Ms. Gilbert is not here, sir," the guard replied honestly, yet Alan's anxiety only heightened, and he attempted to push past.
More guards rushed to intervene, struggling to hold him back.
"Ms. Gilbert really isn't here! Why are you doing this? Do you want us to lose our jobs?"
"We're just following orders, sir. Why make this difficult for us?"
“Please, be reasonable! Everyone inside is trying to work. Don't cause a scene here!"
The guards tried to intervene, pleading and exerting force, but Alan's resolve remained unshaken.