Chapter: 265

Meanwhile, Ashley caught wind of the scandal online and was on the verge of celebration when she received a call from Dylan.

Composed and unshaken, she entered Alan's office with a feigned air of innocence.

"Alan, what's all this fuss online? I haven't seen those old photos in forever. How did this come to be?" she said.

Alan gave her a piercing look, his voice chilly. "You're telling me you have no idea?"

"Do you really think I'm behind this? I swear, it wasn't me," Ashley defended herself.

"Then who else could it be?" Alan pressed.

Tears began to pool in her eyes as she moved closer, a sudden recollection striking her. "Alan, it has to be Owen! After my accident, he took possession of all my belongings. He must've found those photos."

Ashley added, "I never found our photos again after that incident."

Alan narrowed his eyes, his expression skeptical. "Are you suggesting that Owen leaked these news stories?" he asked.

"He must have. He threatened me before, warning that if I ever disclosed his location, he'd ruin my life. It has to be him trying to create discord between us. Alan, you can't let Owen's manipulations make you doubt me. You're all I have right now," Ashley pleaded through tears.

Alan tapped the table impatiently. "I've already set people to investigate this matter. If it turns out that it wasn't Owen, but you..." His voice faded, leaving the threat hanging in the air.

The pause that followed emphasized his next words. "Then expect me to be merciless," he continued, his tone icy.

Ashley met his gaze, her eyes vulnerable. "Alan, if I'm found guilty, I'll accept whatever you decide," she said, her tone firm.

Alan looked away from her. "You can leave now," he said dismissively.

Ashley sniffled, her words caught in her throat as Dylan escorted her out.

After Ashley's departure, Dylan received a critical update. “Mr. Hewitt, the paparazzo believe the anonymous tip was from a male, based on the voice," he reported.

Alan paused to consider this. “Understood. Prepare the press conference," he instructed. "I need to pick up Kaitlin.”

"Alright," Dylan affirmed with a nod.

Soon after, Kaitlin heard the doorbell ringing. She opened the door to find Alan waiting. “Is everything under control?" she asked anxiously.

Alan extended his hand. "Come with me. We need to address something important," he said.

“Where are we going?" Kaitlin asked, puzzled.

Alan held her hand tighter. “We're going to clarify the situation with these news stories," he explained.

Kaitlin hesitated as she looked down at her casual home attire. "Give me a moment to change," she requested.

“There's no need. You look great just as you are," Alan reassured her.