Chapter: 232

Shawn stood up slowly, chuckling. "Tonight, Kaitlin is my driver," he responded, smiling provocatively.

Kaitlin was stunned, not expecting the situation to escalate. Even she could sense the tension between them now. "Alan, Mr. Murphy did come with me. You should go and attend to your matters," she intervened.

Kaitlin tried again to free her hand from Alan's grasp but to no avail. Reluctant to cause a scene in front of Shawn, she masked her frustration with a smile and shot Alan several pointed looks.

However, Alan refused to back down, ignoring Kaitlin's gestures and the mounting tension.

"Since that's the case, I suggest my driver take you back, Mr. Murphy," Alan proposed. “Kaitlin is pregnant and it's not safe for her to be driving in her condition. Surely, you wouldn't object, Mr. Murphy?"

Alan's suggestion effectively silenced any retort Shawn might have in mind.

If Shawn demanded that Kaitlin give him a life, he would appear as an insensitive capitalist.

If he acquiesced, he would be playing right into Alan's strategy.

Alan had observed Kaitlin and Shawn closely throughout dinner, and his annoyance had peaked.

Kaitlin's heart fluttered. Alan's implications were not lost on her.

She watched Shawn, silently hoping he wouldn't take offence.

If Shawn wanted to sabotage her, he could have just kept rejecting her designs for their collaboration.

Kaitlin wished she could scold Alan for his reckless words.

Meanwhile, Shawn maintained a stoic facade, though anger simmered beneath.

“Since you have offered a solution, I'll accept," he finally responded with a forced smile.

Alan's grin broadened. "Mr. Murphy, you're too kind," he remarked, then directed Dylan, "Please escort Mr. Murphy downstairs."

Dylan promptly stepped forward. "Mr. Murphy, please follow me," he invited cordially.

Before leaving, Shawn exchanged a few parting words with Kaitlin.

"Kaitlin, the view tonight was beautiful. I look forward to our next meeting," he said with a warm smile.

This comment visibly upset Alan, his mood souring instantly.

Sensing his growing irritation, Kaitlin acted quickly to divert attention. She waved cheerfully at Shawn and stepped away. “I'll see you later, Mr. Murphy," she called out, smiling.

Only then did Shawn depart with Dylan.

Kaitlin finally relaxed when they were out of sight. She then firmly pinched Alan's side.

Alan grunted and turned to her in astonishment. “What are you doing?" he exclaimed.