Chapter: 366

Alan's expression turned grave. He was still skeptical. "Keep investigating, but let's not tip off the staff this time. She is likely just a fall guy."

Dylan nodded and said, "And this employee?"

“Just do what needs to be done."

"Understood, Mr. Hewitt. I'll handle it immediately."

After Kaitlin's return, the studio had a familiar visitor.

“Ms. Gilbert, Mr. Murphy has been in your office waiting for over ten minutes. I offered to call you, but he declined."

The assistant appeared puzzled as they observed the man through the office glass.

"I understand. Continue with your work."

The assistant nodded, turned, and left.

Kaitlin opened the door and greeted with a courteous smile. "Mr. Murphy, you could have called me. Have you been here long?"

Shawn stood and returned the smile. “It's fine. I just got here."

Shawn's eyes briefly dropped to Kaitlin's growing belly. It had only been half a month since their last meeting, and her pregnancy was more noticeable.

Kaitlin didn't notice his gaze and sat down. “Mr. Murphy, what brings you here today?"

Shawn nodded and said, "Yes, there's a matter. Our prior collaboration has concluded, but we're planning to expand in Osewood. I'll be staying here longer. I'm wondering if there might be a new partnership between us."

Kaitlin's heart skipped a beat. She remembered that Alan said they were competing for a project.

As he noticed her distraction, Shawn's brow creased slightly.

"Kaitlin?"

Kaitlin snapped back to the present. "Oh, Mr. Murphy, I apologize. We're currently working with Gilbert Jewelry on a project, and I'm organizing an exhibition soon. I'm afraid my schedule is quite full."

Shawn nodded and responded, "I'm aware of them. Gilbert Jewelry has a solid reputation in Estresa and would be worth partnering with. I'm referring to future collaborations, not just recent ones."

Kaitlin started looking for a polite way to decline, saying, "Mr. Murphy, I'd genuinely like to work together again, but I'm just not up to it right now. Look at my condition. My baby is almost here."

Kaitlin paused and pretended to be helpless. “If I keep putting my career first, it won't be good for my unborn baby. You understand, don't you?"

Shawn's expression stiffened briefly but quickly smoothed over. "Of course, I understand. Your priority should be your baby. However, once we secure our next project, I'd really like you to be our main partner. Please think it over. This partnership could elevate your career to new heights.”

It seemed Shawn was certain that Kaitlin would work with him.

Kaitlin offered a smile. "Mr. Murphy, are you referring to the Royal Garden Road project?"