Chapter: 190

It seemed unlikely that a stable individual would take their own life over a few harsh words, but for someone battling a mental illness, the impulse to self-harm could be overwhelming.

Kaitlin responded, her tone tinged with confusion, "Phoebe, just try to keep things under control at the studio. I'll visit Whitney's family tomorrow to see what I can learn."

Phoebe immediately protested, "No way! What if her family blames you? We're talking about a sensitive issue here. What if they become emotional and harm you? You shouldn't go by yourself!"

Kaitlin furrowed her brow. "So, what do you propose? The Internet is teeming with harmful rumors. Without pinpointing the source, we can't address this issue. Since I'm directly involved, I'm the quickest path to uncovering the truth."

Phoebe's expression grew tense with concern. “Absolutely not. I can't let you handle this alone. Maybe Nora or Quintin should go with you?"

Kaitlin pondered for a moment. "That could work."

"I'll call them and arrange for Quintin to meet you tomorrow. It's better to have more people on your side," Phoebe suggested.

Kaitlin nodded in confirmation, her face still clouded with unease.

Phoebe, attempting to lighten the mood, playfully stroked Kaitlin's cheek. "Stop that frowning. You'll wrinkle your face. That's not a good look. Come on, let's see a smile. Remember, if you're stressed, the baby feels it too."

Kaitlin forced a weak smile but quickly sighed. “I'm sorry, this scandal is my fault. Maybe I should've been more cautious."

“You've been cautious enough! I've been wanting to send her away since day one. You're not to blame." Phoebe gave Kaitlin a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "Don't worry so much. Try to rest."

After a shower, Kaitlin lay in bed, sleep eluding her.

She was haunted by a nightmare where a blood-drenched Whitney screamed for vengeance, claiming Kaitlin didn't deserve her child and that the baby should suffer with her in the afterlife.

Kaitlin woke up abruptly in the dead of night, her skin clammy with a cold sweat.

“What's wrong? Did you have a nightmare?" Phoebe asked, comforting her with gentle pats on the back.

"It's nothing. Just dreams—they're the exact opposite of reality, not real at all," Kaitlin murmured, trying to calm herself with deep breaths before she reached for her phone.

Amid a barrage of hostile messages, Alan's texts caught her attention.

"I've sent people to investigate Whitney Jones. Expect news by tomorrow."

"There's also a mysterious large sum in Whitney Jones's account. I'm working on tracing its origins."

"Try to rest. Don't worry if you miss these messages tonight."

Kaitlin read through his messages several times, each pass easing her nerves a bit more.

Catching a glimpse, Phoebe offered a playful smirk. “Seems like men do have their moments. Who knew Mr. Hewitt would come through when it counts? Now you can finally sleep easy, huh?"

Setting her phone aside, Kaitlin managed to snatch a few more hours of sleep before the dawn crept in.

The following morning, she traveled with Quintin and Nora to Whitney's hometown.