Chapter: 82

“Ms. Gilbert, please stay," Yvette called out with a bright smile.

“Your insights were truly captivating. As Mr. Hewitt is also present, I would be honored if you both could assist in presenting our finale piece."

Kaitlin's smile tightened as she watched Yvette, wondering what she was up to.

Alan, not usually one for dramatic displays, now joined Kaitlin on stage, taking part in Yvette's orchestrated scene.

Yvette, flourishing a piece of her finale jewelry, announced, "Ms. Gilbert, Mr. Hewitt, could you assist each other in putting these on?"

Reluctantly, Kaitlin watched as Alan took a necklace from Yvette and approached her.

"Let me help you with this," he offered.

With the audience's eyes fixed on them, Kaitlin stood still as Alan draped the necklace around her neck, the ruby centerpiece catching the light dramatically.

"Now, Ms. Gilbert, would you please assist Mr. Hewitt with the ring?"

Yvette continued, her smile fixed.

Kaitlin, catching Yvette's game, picked up the men's ring with a slight frown but managed to maintain her poise. She slid it onto Alan's index finger, despite it being clearly too small.

Alan's brow creased. "Kaitlin, that's meant for the ring finger."

“I think it looks quite fitting on the index. Besides, aren't you single?" Kaitlin retorted softly, her smile sharp. She quickly turned to address the crowd, taking control of the narrative.

"It's been a privilege to showcase Miss Streep's stunning design today," she announced, her voice carrying across the room. “Those interested in collaboration should definitely consult with her."

With a graceful spin that captured the crowd's admiration, Kaitlin removed the necklace and handed it back to a momentarily flustered Yvette. Without another glance, she exited the stage, having thwarted any further attempts by Yvette to use her as a pawn.

Left to salvage the situation, Yvette managed only a tight-lipped smile as she smoothed over the abrupt end to the showcase.

"Mr. Hewitt, please accept these rings as a token of appreciation,"

Yvette announced grandly. “May they bring you love and happiness."

Alan, less enamored with the spectacle, accepted the rings with a perfunctory nod and stepped down from the stage. His eyes briefly met Kaitlin's; a moment's hesitation crossed his features before he made his way towards her.

Quintin, ever protective, noticed Alan's approach and said with a dismissive sneer, “Looks like trouble's headed this way again. Maybe it's time we left."

Kaitlin agreed, and they began to move towards the exit.

Behind them, the jewelry show buzzed with success-a testament to Yvette's careful orchestration, though she found herself too entangled with potential clients to follow up with Alan.

Just as Kaitlin and Quintin reached their car, Alan caught up.

"Kaitlin, wait," Alan called out.