Chapter: 164
He had lost many loved ones, Beth's presence crucial in his life; the thought of losing her was unbearable.
"Grandma, get some rest. Kaitlin and I are okay, don't worry about us," he reassured her softly.
“Good, good," Beth murmured, her grip loosening as she let go of Kaitlin's hand.
It seemed she had exhausted her last reserve of strength, drifting swiftly into a deep sleep.
Kaitlin rose and left the room with Alan trailing behind.
The pregnancy had heightened her emotions, and the day's events left her deeply stirred.
"Kaitlin, there's something I need to clear up about Ashley," Alan began as they walked. "She was in trouble, harassed by her ex-husband, and I couldn't just leave her. I took her in just to help, but she's not here anymore."
Kaitlin barely reacted, even letting out a slight scoff, clearly skeptical of his words. "You don't need to spell it out for me. She was once the love of your life. I get it."
Kaitlin dismissed him with a wave of her hand. "I only came today to visit Beth. Now that I've seen her, I'm heading out."
She made her way downstairs swiftly, prompting Alan to chase after her.
"Kaitlin, I'm really trying to make you understand. Why won't you believe me?"
In a moment of desperation, Alan caught her hand and pressed it against his chest. “Do you feel that? My heart beats for you now."
Kaitlin's expression shifted, his declaration seeming overly dramatic.
She quickly withdrew her hand. “Alan, what has got into you?"
Alan noticed the curious glances from those around them and felt his cheeks warm with embarrassment.
But he knew he had to seize the moment to clarify things; if Kaitlin left now, their misunderstanding might deepen.
"Kaitlin, can we have a word? Even if you're not interested in what I have to say, think about the baby."
His voice dropped to a near whisper, tinged with desperation.
Kaitlin's eyebrow arched, wondering if she'd heard him wrong.
“Follow me." This time, Alan didn't attempt to touch her but led the way to the backyard.
Kaitlin paused, then reluctantly trailed behind him.
When they reached a quiet corner, Alan stopped. “Kaitlin, it's true I had feelings for Ashley once, but that's all behind me now."
"For a few years after we married, I wasn't over her. But since I began pursuing you once more, I've not spared a thought for any other woman."
Fearing Kaitlin might doubt his sincerity, Alan added a line that came off as exceedingly cheesy.