Chapter 128

“They’re all charmed by the novelty,” Catlin said. “But once that fades, our different backgrounds will become a problem. You’ll be tossed aside.” This sudden rupture in their relationship triggered a primal fear. She realized, with a jolt, that she didn’t want to sever ties with Stephanie.

“Whether I’ll be tossed aside or not is none of your concern,” Stephanie retorted. “Just sign the damn papers.” The phone went dead. Stephanie’s final words, laced with a clear threat, sent a wave of dizziness through Catlin.

Seeing Chris Ashford, she looked heartbroken. “Chris,” she began.

Chris stepped forward. “Was that Stephanie?”

Catlin nodded, anguish etched on her face. “Yes, she wants to cut ties. She said the papers need Chad’s signature, too.”

“What the hell is she playing at? Why does she have to make such a mess of things?”

Catlin’s frustration peaked. Why couldn’t Stephanie just behave, especially now? Was it because of her studio, the one supposedly making over two million dollars a year? If that was her motivation, she was incredibly shortsighted. Businesses run on luck; one good year doesn’t guarantee another. To throw away her family for a measly two million…

“Forget it, let her throw her tantrum,” Catlin said, dismissing the topic. She was done talking about Stephanie. If Stephanie wanted to cut ties, so be it. But the memory of her recent calls to Dr. Vitale and Dr. Pierce’s assistants resurfaced, darkening her already grim mood. The news she’d received had only fueled her anger.

Tyler Hart entered the room, his expression serious as he took in his mother and Chris. “What happened now?”

“What else? Stephanie, of course,” Catlin replied, her voice heavy with exasperation. “She just called, demanding I sign papers to sever our ties.” Two years, and hardly a call from her. Now, the first real call was to demand a formal break.

Tyler’s face hardened. “She’s really going this far?” He had assumed it was just talk, that she’d calm down eventually. Now, it was clear she had no intention of backing down.

Catlin sighed, glancing at Chris and Tyler. “What about her studio? When can we shut it down?”

Chris and Tyler exchanged a look. The mere mention of Stephanie’s studio darkened their expressions. It was clear they had underestimated Stephanie. She hadn’t just started the studio; she had the resources to protect it. The responses from Stephanie’s business partners had been a harsh wake-up call.

“We can’t shut it down. Her partners are all backing her,” Tyler admitted.

“What?” Catlin was stunned.

“Just leave it. Don’t bring up the studio again,” Tyler said, his face flushed with embarrassment.

The whole situation revealed just how little respect the Hart family, and even the Ashford family, commanded in Long Harbor. Chris, using the Ashford Group’s influence, had tried to sever all of Stephanie’s business partnerships. Not a single company had complied.

“Let’s go see Olivia,” Tyler said, wanting to change the subject. He led the way to Olivia’s room. Chris, after a hesitant look at Catlin, followed Tyler. Catlin, fuming, stomped her foot and trailed after them.

Inside the hospital room, Olivia was still on the phone. As Tyler opened the door, they heard Olivia roar, “Fine! Then we’ll both go to jail!” Tyler froze.