Chapter: 16

Meanwhile, Kaitlin monitored her phone intently. Announcing her return had ignited a flurry of interest online, with numerous collaboration offers flooding in.

Once dismissive of such opportunities, Kaitlin now recognized their value in rebuilding her career. She quickly shared her contact information; within moments, several studios reached out with lucrative proposals.

Her lips curled into a knowing smile-she was ready to thrive independently, without Alan's support.

Alan watched her closely, her smile stirring an uncomfortable realization within him.

"Alan, are you sure about this divorce? If Ashley knew, she'd probably celebrate. No matter how much Kaitlin resembles her, she's merely a stand-in," whispered Lilliana, dripping with insinuation, by his side.

Yet, Kaitlin, with deliberate indifference, chose to ignore her, which only served to intensify Lilliana's irritation.

Alan and Kaitlin's turn at the counter came swiftly.

Kaitlin, seeing a newlywed couple nearby, handed her suitcase to them with a gracious nod.

“Best wishes for a blissful union," she offered, her gesture underscoring the stark contrast between the newlyweds' joy and her own solemn purpose.

Without a backward glance at Alan, Kaitlin strode into the office.

Her attire misled the clerk at first.

"Please present your IDs for the marriage registration," the clerk began cheerfully.

Kaitlin, without hesitation, laid out the divorce papers and their once-cherished marriage certificate on the counter. "We're here to dissolve our marriage," she clarified succinctly.

The clerk, taken aback, stuttered for a moment before finding her professional footing. “Oh, I see. Are both parties in agreement?"

"That's correct," Kaitlin replied, leaving no room for Alan to object.

“Sir, your signature is required to finalize the proceedings." The clerk indicated to Alan, sliding the document toward him.

Alan's eyes briefly met Kaitlin's; her signature, usually meticulous, now appeared almost defiant.

Silence hung heavy as Alan took up the pen and reluctantly signed.

The clerk, seeking confirmation, looked up. "Ms. Gilbert has waived all claims to assets. Do either of you object?"

“No objections," Kaitlin asserted immediately, her tone unwavering.

Alan, his pride stung, could not hold back. "You don't want any claim? It's like you're trying to humiliate me, Kaitlyn." His voice carried a mix of disbelief and accusation.

Kaitlin arched an eyebrow at Alan. "Your wealth is irrelevant to me."

Alan hesitated, a manipulative glint in his eyes. "If you walk away empty-handed, what will people think? You're really putting on a show, aren't you? Discarding wealth to be more like Ashley-quite the act, Kaitlin," he scoffed.

The clerk looked on, momentarily forgetting their role amidst the unfolding drama.