Chapter: 163

Beth's ailment was a manifestation of her anxiety over her son.

The sickness was merely a strategy to draw Miguel closer.

Beth was playing a strategic game. Now, the next move was Alan's to make.

Kaitlin was not there merely as a spectator. She gestured towards the staircase. "I want to see Beth."

"Alright, let's go upstairs."

Alan extended his hand to assist Kaitlin, but she gently declined.

"I can manage on my own, thank you."

Kaitlin led the way, not once looking back at Alan.

Upon entering Beth's room, a subtle medicinal odor lingered in the air.

The elderly woman lay on her bed, her breathing labored, eyes half- shut.

Kaitlin's expression tightened slightly. For the elderly, sickness could strike with the weight of a tumbling mountain.

Despite her usual meticulous self-care, Beth now appeared pallid, her hair graying noticeably.

"Beth, it's Kaitlin. I'm here," she announced softly.

Kaitlin perched by the bedside, leaning in close so that Beth could hear her clearly.

The light in Beth's eyes dimmed with age, and as they shifted, her hand trembled as she reached out.

Kaitlin instinctively grasped it, squeezing gently to reassure her.

“Beth, I'm right here. Let me know if there's anything you need," she whispered.

Beth inhaled deeply, her words fragmented as she spoke.

Alan braced himself, expecting her to mention Miguel, but instead, she addressed the rift between him and Kaitlin.

"Kaitlin, Alan... he struggles with his words... if there's any confusion... please, just sit down... talk it through," she advised.

"It's precious... for two people... to share their lives... you must both treasure it."

Her earnest advice resonated with Kaitlin, tugging at her heartstrings.

Alan exhaled deeply, the frailty in Beth's voice making her plea sound almost like a final entreaty.

The emotional weight of the moment was overwhelming for him.