Chapter 195

Caden smirked, his eyes glittering with mockery. Alicia felt the sting. With their argument reaching a climax, she declared resolutely, “This ends today. There’s no need to discuss this further.”

Caden’s expression hardened, then faltered. “Are you sure about this?” he asked impatiently.

Alicia braced herself. “What’s there to consider? You’ve said the same thing repeatedly. What do you expect me to say? Are you considering letting me go?”

Caden scoffed. “You know damn well who has trouble letting go,” he retorted, his patience fraying. “Stop being so dramatic. I’m done.”

Alicia remained firm. “I didn’t ask you to enjoy my drama. You can proceed as you wish with our agreement.” She added nonchalantly, “If you think this association has been a burden, just let me know. I’ll take care of it.”

Grabbing her bag, she opened the door and left. He didn’t make a scene, but the office fell eerily silent after she departed, almost lifeless.

Caden felt his anger surge. He was at his limit, but he wouldn't unleash his frustration. Instead, he sat, attempting to concentrate, and resumed his paperwork.

Moments later, Hank knocked, entering with a bewildered look. “Mr. Ward, what happened to Miss Bennett? She refused to let me get her a driver.”

Caden’s expression remained cold. “Just ignore her.”

Hank hesitated, sensing something amiss. Had they disagreed? The room felt heavy, and as darkness fell, rain began.

Aware of Caden’s mood, Hank ventured, “It’s getting dark and raining, Mr. Ward. Perhaps you should take Miss Bennett home?”

Caden snapped, “Why? She’s an adult. Do you think she can’t find her way?”

Intimidated, Hank stammered, “I apologize, Mr. Ward. That was out of line.”

“Go away.”

Hank quickly retreated.

Caden had planned to work late, but found he couldn’t concentrate. He turned off his computer and decided to take the medical report to the Joy mansion.

Ciara was enjoying music when he arrived. Caden didn’t interrupt, simply placing the report before her.

Ciara immediately sensed something was wrong. “What’s wrong?”

Caden maintained a neutral expression. “Nothing. Just some work stuff.”

Seeing his reluctance, Ciara didn’t press. She examined the report; everything seemed in order. His only wish was for her continued good health.

Later, knowing Caden would be dining there, Ciara instructed the kitchen staff to prepare extra dishes.

He later found her on the terrace. A tall figure shrouded in night, faint smoke swirling around him.

Ciara approached. “Why are you smoking? I thought you didn’t smoke.”

Caden crushed his cigarette, waving away the smoke. “Stay away when I smoke,” he replied, evading her question.

Ciara watched intently. “You don’t usually do this…”

Caden frowned. “Stop worrying about me.”

Ciara countered, “If you don’t want me to worry, don’t make it so obvious. Your feelings are written all over your face. I can’t ignore it.” She smiled, slightly pleased. “That girl really affects you, huh?”

Caden’s expression froze. He turned and left, wanting no more of Ciara’s presence. Everything she said or did irritated him. But no one irritated him as much as Alicia. The thought of her fueled his fury, though he didn’t understand why.

She held feelings for him, refused to leave, yet he always resisted. She was stubborn, relentlessly so. He fantasized about confining her, forcing submission until she was too exhausted to argue.

Late, after dinner, he had no intention of leaving. He decided to stay the night. Ciara had a room prepared.

“Let’s see if you can sleep alone tonight,” Ciara teased. “You’re not afraid of the dark, are you, my dear grandson?”

Caden was momentarily speechless, then replied curtly, “I’m not afraid of the dark. It’s the constant chatter I can’t stand. No talking after nine. It’s irritating.”

Ciara laughed softly, humming as she tended her flowers. Caden settled on the couch to watch TV, distracted, barely registering the program.

Then his phone, carelessly discarded, vibrated. It was Gerry, excited. “Come out for a drink, Caden!”

Caden wasn’t apologetic. “I’ve stopped drinking.”

“Sure,” Gerry replied, amusement in his voice. “I’m texting you the address. Come with us. It’ll be fun.” The loud music in the background was overwhelming. Then, a soft female voice: “Alicia! Wait for me!”

Caden frowned.