Chapter: 85
Social media buzzed with pictures and clips of their lunch, portraying it as a cozy date rather than a staged affair, starkly contrasting the stiff atmosphere of the jewelry show.
Alan's annoyance deepened as he viewed the trending images. Quintin was becoming a recurring annoyance, a constant reminder of what he might be losing.
That afternoon brought another complication. Miguel Hewitt, Alan's uncle, returned from an extended medical stay overseas, necessitating a cautious approach from Alan in family matters.
The phone rang, Beth's voice coming through. “Alan, your uncle is back. You should bring Kaitlin home for dinner tonight."
"Alright," Alan said curtly before reaching out to Kaitlin to explain the urgency of the situation.
Kaitlin pondered for a moment, well aware of the historical tension in the Hewitt family.
The rivalry for control of Hewitt Group had only subsided after Miguel's accident forced him abroad for medical care.
Now, with his return, she suspected the old conflicts might resurface.
If Miguel discovered their divorce, it would certainly become ammunition in any power struggle.
Despite the complexities, Kaitlin agreed to attend the dinner for Beth's sake, recognizing the importance of family appearances.
The dinner was impeccably arranged, reflecting Beth's effort to welcome her son back. She had aged visibly, worn down by worry over Miguel's health.
Miguel, confined to a wheelchair, greeted Alan with a sharp grin that didn't quite reach his eyes. “Alan, long time no see. You haven't changed at all."
His cold, calculating gaze was unsettling, but Alan, familiar with his uncle's probing and provocative manner, responded with a nonchalant nod. “Uncle, looks like you're still recovering. How are your legs?"
Miguel's laugh had a dark undertone. "You've been married three years, yet no children? What's the matter, Alan? Problems on your end?"
Kaitlin stiffened, sensing the trap. Discussions of heirs were a delicate topic, especially with Beth likely to pressure them about grandchildren.
She hadn't revealed her pregnancy due to the divorce, but exposing this fact mow would put her unborn child directly in Miguel's crosshairs.
Fear gripped her as she realized the extent of the danger Miguel's return posed.
“Why is everyone here chatting? Let's get the meal going, everyone's here. Come on."
Beth arrived just in the perfect moment, easing the tension between Alana and Miguel.
The men quelled the fire in their eyes and moved toward the dining room.
Kaitlin trailed close behind Alan, her gaze darting around until it clashed with Miguel's piercing stare.
Miguel broke into a taunting smile.
Alan, sensing the tension, quickly stepped in front of Kaitlin, his voice low and warning. "Uncle, why are you looking at Kaitlin like that?"
"Look at you, suddenly so caring towards your wife. Weren't you head over heels for Ashley? How did you get over her so fast?" Miguel retorted, his voice dripping with sarcasm.