Chapter: 166

Alan, however, met her at the door, denying her entry.

"Alan, I heard Beth was unwell, so I came by," Ashley explained, her frustration evident as she was barred at the entrance. "They didn't allow me inside."

Alan gestured to the guards, signaling them to step back. As Ashley's expression brightened momentarily, Alan stepped forward, effectively blocking her way.

“Alan, what are you..."

"Grandma is resting. You wouldn't be able to see her regardless. We need to talk."

Alan led the way outside, stopping beside the mansion's wall.

Ashley forced a smile, though anxiety gnawed at her from within.

Alan's serious demeanor signaled a decisive shift. She instantly knew he was severing their ties.

A part of her wished she had braced herself better for this moment.

"Ashley, I'm into Kaitlin now. It's better if we part ways and no longer see each other," Alan said.

Alan was direct. As soon as he finished speaking, a wave of relief washed over him.

Ashley had occupied his heart for years. Now was the time to release her.

“I don't want to dredge up our past anymore," Alan declared, his face set with resolve.

“Alan... you..." Ashley stammered.

“That's everything I needed to say. You can go now."

With those final words, Alan drew in a deep breath and turned back towards the house.

Ashley, caught off guard, found herself speechless. Before she could even muster a response, Alan had retreated.

Her smile wavered, morphing into a scowl.

Her hands tightened into fists, the present she held now felt like a mockery.

Kaitlin was really something. She had made Alan end things with her with definitive coldness.

Ashley's eyes darkened as she stared down the grand mansion, then turned to leave.

Just then, a black car whizzed by, nearly grazing her. The man inside caught a glimpse of Ashley and offered a slight, knowing smile.

Clearly, he wasn't the only one out of favor in Osewood.

Alan was about to return to his office when he noticed Miguel rolling out of a car in his wheelchair.