Chapter 105

Raquel paled. Mrs. Reyes, relieved, quickly intervened, “Mrs. Gray, we’ve been discussing this for ages, and you’ve only just remembered? It’s clearly your mistake.”

Rachel was stunned. Mrs. Reyes’s cold smile revealed a shift in their relationship; Rachel was merely an acquaintance, not a friend. With millions at stake, loyalties were fluid. Rachel's heart sank. The plan had been hers, and the consequences now hurt deeply. Losing millions—a sum she’d earned herself—was unbearable. Randolph was frugal, and most of her funds were hard-earned.

Mrs. Reyes held powerful connections; Rachel couldn't alienate her. Only Alicia remained. Rachel forced a smile. “Mrs. Bennett, everyone makes mistakes. Aren't you being too harsh?”

Alicia’s eyes gleamed. “What's the problem? Can't afford it?” She paused, then added sharply, “No problem. A promissory note, interest at bank rates.”

Rachel's smile vanished. “Mrs. Bennett, must you be so aggressive? Mr. Ward won considerably; I haven't suffered losses.”

“His earnings. What concern is that of mine?” Alicia asked, feigning confusion. Turning to Caden, she added dryly, “Why should you support me financially? Are you my son?”

Caden’s irritation was barely concealed. Alicia, you’re so ungrateful, he thought, suppressing a sigh. I’m here to help, and you’re turning it against me?

Raquel interjected, “Let’s leave it. Ms. Reyes didn’t intend to single you out.”

Alicia scoffed. “If Caden hadn’t noticed, Mrs. Reyes would have had me playing for hours. I was losing tens of thousands per round. How much would I have lost overall? That's hardly accidental.”

Rachel raised an eyebrow. “You could have quit. No one forced you to continue.”

Mrs. Reyes, ever opportunistic, added with a sly smile, “Exactly. Why didn't you leave if you were losing so much?”

Alicia straightened. “Fine,” she said coldly. “But don't blame me for what follows.” She nudged Caden. “Call the police, Mr. Ward.”

Caden’s voice dripped with disdain. “Why are you ordering me around? Do you think I’m your son?”

Alicia glared, speechless with fury.

She called the police.

Seeing Alicia’s seriousness, Rachel intervened, “Mrs. Bennett, that’s enough!”

Caden, grim-faced, kicked a chair, blocking Rachel's path.

Alicia continued the call. “Hello? Is this the police?”

Rachel's eyes widened. Randolph would be furious. She sighed. “Fine. I’ll pay.”

Alicia smiled, showing her phone. “Relax,” she said calmly. “I didn’t actually call.” With feigned innocence, she added, “It’s only a small amount, after all.”

Raquel’s face hardened. She’d spoken, and couldn't retract her word. Reluctantly, she transferred half the amount. She then gestured to Mrs. Reyes to pay the remainder.

Mrs. Reyes reluctantly complied, unable to create a scene.

Alicia checked her balance. Every penny was there.

Caden frowned, watching her satisfied expression. She’d endured so much, yet this small victory made her shine.

“Are you sure you counted correctly?” Caden’s voice was icy. “Perhaps there are two extra dollars?”

Alicia was surprised. “I’ve checked. Everything’s correct. Why?”

Caden smiled coldly. “For all the fuss, how much did you spend, and how much did you earn? Miss Bennett, your time seems rather cheap.”

Alicia realized his meaning. Her triumph felt hollow.

Their eyes met. Can I push them harder? Alicia's eyes seemed to ask.

Caden’s gaze subtly challenged, It’s up to you.

Will you support me? Alicia silently asked.

He merely cocked his head, rubbing his temple in his familiar manner. It wasn’t a “yes,” but she understood.

Before Mrs. Reyes could leave, Alicia stopped her.

Mrs. Reyes’s irritation flared. “What more do you want?”

Alicia's words were sharp. “You and Mrs. Gray conspired against me. How will you compensate for the emotional distress?”

Mrs. Reyes’ eyes widened. “Why, you…?”

Alicia cut her off. Her voice was cold. “Apologize.”

Caden watched, exasperated. It’s hopeless, he thought.

Mrs. Reyes's apology was stiff and tense, but she muttered the words before storming off, with Raquel close behind, whispering urgently.

Alicia exhaled, feeling satisfaction. She sat beside Caden. “If you hadn’t arrived, I’d have nothing.”

Caden sneered. “Weren’t you harsh just now, saying we wouldn’t cooperate again?”

Alicia hesitated. “You’re late. I thought you weren’t coming.”

“And if I hadn’t come, would you have let them walk all over you?” Caden leaned closer. “Why do you always attack me when you can’t stand on your own?”

Alice looked away. “You’re different. I just wanted to push them. If I offended them…I’d suffer.”

Caden snorted. Different? How could he be different? He pushed the thought aside. Silently, he transferred his winnings into Alicia’s account.

Alicia blinked. “Why are you giving me money?”

He shrugged. “That money passed through your hands. Bad luck.”

She was speechless.