Chapter 194

She stood still, overwhelmed. Memories of the past few months with Caden flooded back, intensifying her anguish. She tried to calm herself, dismissing her feelings as unimportant. So what if he had hidden agendas? She had her own. He sought her physically because it mitigated his need for medication; she relied on him to manage Joshua. But… throughout their intimacy, he had been kind. Could he truly be devoid of affection? Not even a little?

Alice struggled to shake off the bitterness gathering in her heart. How absurd. How could someone like Caden easily develop feelings for her? He didn't like her, did he? His closeness was merely to avoid medication. With a sarcastic smile, she took several deep breaths, relieved to have discovered the truth before her feelings grew stronger. Their arrangement was ending, and parting ways after settling everything seemed manageable. However, breaking their constant companionship would be challenging.

Shortly after, Caden entered, concluding his meeting. He closed the door and asked in his usual tone, “Have you reviewed the product file?” Alice, having regained her composure, nodded. He approved it and passed it to her for review. Caden glanced at the file, then noticed a handkerchief on the desk.

“Is this for me?” she asked, recognizing the men’s brand and examining it casually. “You are very generous.” She studied his handsome features.

“I’m not as generous as you,” she replied, a warm smile masking cold eyes.

Caden didn't look at her. He handed her the handkerchief back. “Put it on me. Let’s see if it fits.”

Alice took the scarf, silent for a moment. Then, she stood on tiptoe to help him. Their proximity led to physical contact. Breathing in her scent, he pulled her close and kissed her. She tensed momentarily, her thoughts wandering during the kiss.

Caden released her, his gaze intense. “What’s going on?”

Alice felt upset. Having discovered his secret, she struggled to maintain their intimacy. The words were about to escape when she looked down. Abruptly, she confessed, “Caden, I went through your drawer without asking.”

He didn't seem fazed. "You don't need my permission."

“I found your medical records,” she blurted out. “I know about your illness.”

Caden's expression grew serious. He'd always intended to hide his illness. Their physical chemistry had been remarkable; she was the only one who affected him so. Truthfully, it confused and embarrassed him. Now that she knew, she no longer bothered to hide it. "SW? What are you trying to say?”

Alice respected his sincerity, acknowledging her suspicions had been correct.

He asked, “Will you continue working with me?” Caden wasn’t naive. Alice had always been emotionally transparent, and he knew how she felt. However, he considered those feelings insignificant.

“I plan to continue, but I won’t force you,” Caden replied flatly.

Alice remained silent, lips pursed. Now that the secret was out, he was direct. “If it’s okay with you, we can carry on as usual. I will satisfy your needs without conditions.”

Alice suddenly felt like a stranger. Then, he realized his mistake. His previous kindness had been a façade. The tough Caden before her was his true self. Instinctively, she refused. "No. I don't want that. Isn’t this like being kept by you?”

Caden burst out laughing.

“So what do you want?” he asked, his tone laced with sarcasm. “A degree?”

She started to respond, but he cut her off. “That won’t happen. Be realistic.”

His ruthless words stung Alice. She felt hurt and ashamed. The atmosphere chilled.

“You're thinking too much. I've had a title before. It doesn’t mean much,” Caden said, unfazed. "So what's bothering you?" he added, his voice growing distant.

Alice clenched her fists. “Am I worried? Didn’t I just say I don’t want to continue this with you?”

Caden found her reaction amusing. He studied her, watching her emotions intensify.

Unable to bear the tension, Alice turned away.

He spoke bluntly: “You like me and you enjoy our time together. Why make things complicated?”

Alice felt a sharp pang. She struggled to maintain her composure.

“I recognize your abilities, but to say that I like you? That’s going too far,” he replied firmly. “Don't overestimate yourself.”

Caden scoffed, his patience wearing thin. “You're so stubborn.” He sensed her dishonesty, which irritated him. His tone sharpened. “You've already been hurt once with Joshua. Why are you still so naive? Wouldn’t we be better off with a no-strings-attached arrangement?”

Alice fluttered her eyelashes, a mix of frustration and sadness in her eyes. He had made it clear: their relationship could only be casual. A deeper connection was impossible.

Her eyes filled with tears, but her expression was firm. “Enjoying being intimate with you doesn't mean I like you. Understand that,” she clarified, her voice steady. “This is purely physical. If I want intimacy, it doesn't have to be with you. There are plenty of others who could take your place.”