Chapter: 218

The commitment to their joint venture was palpable from both sides.

The evening stretched on, and it was late by the time they left the restaurant.

Shawn drove her back home, and Kaitlin watched his car disappear into the night before making her way upstairs.

Alan had been lurking nearby, his face betraying no emotion.

A silent tension had been brewing between them over Ashley.

Kaitlin felt irked and had no desire to interact with Alan.

Yet, he silently followed her into the elevator.

“Who dropped you off?" he asked.

Kaitlin wasn't taken aback. It seemed Alan had been watching for some time. "A business partner."

The elevator chimed, and the doors slid open.

Kaitlin exited swiftly, aiming to get home without delay.

Alan was right behind her, keeping her from entering her apartment.

"What are you up to?" Kaitlin glanced back at him, visibly irritated.

"Kaitlin, we need to talk."

"There's nothing to discuss." Her tone was icy, a sharp contrast to her earlier buoyant mood.

A twinge of jealousy clouded Alan's expression, and his voice grew bitter. "Why?"

Kaitlin found his reaction somewhat ironic. He had stood up for Ashley against her, yet he seemed to think she had no reason to be upset?

"Alan, go look for Ashley. She's always gentle and considerate, never making things tough for you." Kaitlin brushed off his hand. "I need to get some rest. Move."

Alan let go of her arm, and she slammed the door shut with a force that nearly clipped his nose.

He lingered for a moment before heading back to his own apartment next door.

Downstairs, Shawn, who had not yet driven off, observed Alan follow Kaitlin into the building.

A cold sneer formed at the corner of his mouth.

In the days that followed, Kaitlin took charge of the collaboration with Shawn, Sometimes Shawn would visit her. Other times, he was preoccupied with other matters.

Once everything was settled, Shawn organized a small get-together.