Chapter: 341

Denton looked puzzled by her statement. "Assist?" he asked, somewhat incredulously. “In my last discussion with Kaitlin, we thoroughly covered the partnership details. Does Mr. Hewitt still have some doubts?"

Ashley let out a few forced laughs. "No, he doesn't," Ashley responded, maintaining her composure. "But given Kaitlin's pregnancy, she might find managing the workload difficult. This could affect the smooth execution of the project."

Denton's expression turned stern. "What do you mean by that?" he asked, his tone shifting.

"Mr. Gilbert, Kaitlin's dedication is commendable, but if Mr. Hewitt hadn't intervened, she wouldn't decline the collaboration," Ashley explained.

She paused before adding, "The head of Oasis Jewelry is pregnant, which could compromise the results."

Ashley watched Denton carefully, noting his reaction. "What are your thoughts, Mr. Gilbert?" she asked.

Denton frowned, his displeasure evident.

Ashley's lips twitched into a slight smirk before she sighed. “I must apologize. Mr. Hewitt sent me here without Kaitlin's knowledge. Should any compensation be necessary, I will convey that to Mr. Hewitt," she said diplomatically.

Her words were carefully chosen to test his reaction.

Rumors of Denton's unusually close ties with Kaitlin were well-known, and Alan found it intolerable.

If this conversation caused the collaboration to falter, everyone would be happy.

And if Denton sought confirmation from Kaitlin, the latter would put the blame on Alan.

Ashley believed that Kaitlin and Alan would have a fight over this and continue to give each other the silent treatment.

At that moment, Denton rose from his seat, fixing Ashley with a cold stare.

“Please inform Mr. Hewitt that this matter concerns Oasis Jewelry and Gilbert Jewelry alone. Even if Kaitlin has no energy to participate, I don't care," Denton said firmly.

Ashley, feigning disarray, stood to reply, but Denton had already turned away and started walking.

Ashley watched his retreating figure, her eyes glinting with frostiness and satisfaction.

True to Ashley's expectations, Denton was forthright with Kaitlin about his encounter with Alan's assistant.

Kaitlin's expression clouded over. "Is she really with the Hewitt Group?" she asked.

"Yes," Denton confirmed, his tone neutral.

Kaitlin took a deep breath. "Mr. Gilbert, please understand that Alan does not speak for me. My studio operates independently of the Hewitt Group," she explained.

Denton still looked worried. "How have you been?" he asked, his gaze tender.

"As you can see, I'm managing well," Kaitlyn responded.

Denton studied her face and saw no signs of tiredness or sickness.