Chapter: 211

“Kaitlin, I assure you, I have no involvement. He has been harassing me all this time, even threatening to destroy me. He Likely kidnapped you just to get some ransom money. Alan can prove that I'm innocent. If you're upset, I'm sorry," Ashley said.

Kaitlin's irritation intensified at the sight of Ashley's vulnerable state. "Did you do it or not? I don't have time for excuses."

Ashley lifted her hand. "I swear, it wasn't me! Kaitlin, I mean you no harm. What happened with Alan is history. I don't want to cause any trouble between you two."

Ashley appeared desperate, her fear of not being believed evident as she clenched her teeth and knelt. "Kaitlin, I'm not involved. Please, don't accuse me without cause."

Kaitlin was taken aback by Ashley's action and blurted out, “What are you doing?"

At that moment, Alan moved in, helping Ashley to her feet.

Seizing the moment, Ashley feigned a stumble and leaned on Alan.

“Alan, please tell her. It really wasn't me."

Kaitlin's chest heaved with anger, she was the victim, yet she appeared to be a villain.

She threw a final, scathing look at the pair locked in an embrace, then spun on her heel and stormed out.

Alan, sensing the tension, gently pushed Ashley away, only for her to gasp and wince in pain.

"My ankle.." she murmured, her voice laced with distress.

Ashley's high heels had betrayed her; a sharp twist had left her ankle swollen and flushed a painful red.

Tears brimmed in her eyes as she looked up at Alan. “Alan, I think Kaitlin's really hurt by this. It wasn't my intention at all."

Alan shot a worried glance toward the door through which Kaitlin had vanished, then exhaled a weary sigh. "I'll have someone take you to the hospital to get that checked," he decided.

Kaitlin, still reeling from the scene, severed all communication with Alan and avoided any meetings with him.

Days later, a ripple of excitement passed through Oasis Studio. A prestigious jewelry company from abroad was scouting for a new partner in the country-a golden ticket for Oasis Jewelry to breach international markets. Phoebe and Kaitlin, laser-focused, recognized the immense opportunity.

Oasis Jewelry, already a budding name domestically, was ripe for this breakthrough.

Phoebe had quickly handed in their partnership proposal, while Kaitlin was deeply engrossed in her preparations.

With the competition stiffening, she was determined to make the most of this chance.

"Kaitlin, we've got news. The company's representative is coming to Osewood tomorrow, and we've arranged an evening meeting with them."

"That's fantastic. I'm nearly there."

Phoebe nodded. "Make sure Nora goes with you. Her international experience could be invaluable."

"Alright."