Chapter 244:

Yolanda sought Dorian's advice before finalizing the initial program. With steady hands, he carefully inserted the chip into the robot's body, entered the code, and rebooted it. The humanoid robot, Lina, came to life. Yolanda smiled with satisfaction. She was eager to test Lina's capabilities but paused, remembering Caden was en route. She wanted him to meet Lina first.

Shortly afterward, Caden arrived. Yolanda greeted him enthusiastically. "Caden! You're here. Come, take a look!"

Caden's gaze fell upon Lina. He recognized her—his creation. But something was different. The mechanical eyes, once lifeless, now glowed with a warmth that resembled human pupils. Intrigued, he studied her with a blend of curiosity and admiration.

"Try her, Caden," Yolanda encouraged softly. "I'll be out for a moment."

Caden nodded. "Thank you."

Yolanda smiled warmly. "Don't worry. It's the least I could do."

After leaving, Yolanda leaned against the wall, savoring the feeling of fulfilling Caden's need. Everything she'd learned from Dorian had been instrumental; Alice never could have done this. One day, she would naturally supplant Alice.

Meanwhile, Dorian emerged from the bathroom. Before he could speak, Yolanda gently pushed him away. "Dad, you need to go now," she said firmly, wanting to avoid interference. "Trust me, I have this."

Dorian, ever perceptive, understood her unspoken intentions. He placed a hand on her shoulder. "Take care," he said softly.

Yolanda's determination was unwavering. "I will, Dad," she replied firmly, offering a reassuring smile as she led him to the car.

Once in the car, Dorian sighed wearily. Retirement suited him. If not for Yolanda's request, he wouldn't have been involved. The hours of work had exhausted him, and he soon fell asleep.

Awakening, he found the car parked beneath a large advertising sign. His eyes widened as the screen displayed an advertisement for Alicia's gallery, her portrait dominating. Her delicate features and serene gaze were captivating, but a deeper expression drew him in, sparking an unsettling sense of familiarity.

"So this is Alicia, the woman Caden has feelings for," Dorian murmured. Alicia and Yolanda, both charming and accomplished in their respective fields, seemed a perfect match. Yet, a nagging recognition persisted. Why did Alicia's face seem so familiar?

Noticing Dorian's captivated gaze, the driver broke the silence. "Mr. Moss, do you know her?"

Dorian's expression turned serious. "No. Is she well-known in Warrington?"

The driver hesitated. "Recently, yes. She's gained popularity, especially with Mr. Ward." The Bennett family story was widely known, and the driver had heard fragments. "She's an orphan. After graduating university, she married into the Yates family, but they divorced several months ago."

Dorian frowned thoughtfully. "Orphan?"

"Yes, her parents died in an accident," the driver confirmed. A pang of inexplicable compassion touched Dorian's heart.

Meanwhile, Caden was impressed with Lina, though some details required refinement. He intended to make those adjustments himself.

Before he knew it, darkness fell. Outside, he found Yolanda waiting, her pale face causing concern. "Are you okay?"

Yolanda nodded quickly, forcing a smile. "What do you think? Do you like her?"

"Yes, she's impressive," Caden replied, his admiration clear. "But you must prioritize your health. You can't keep pushing yourself. When you've recovered, you should return to Dorian."

Yolanda's smile faltered, replaced by sadness. "Caden, I worked tirelessly today, alone. I just wanted to make you happy, and now you want to send me away?"

Caden's tone became firm. "I appreciate your efforts, but your return is non-negotiable."

Yolanda bit her lip, fighting back frustration. She knew she needed to retreat, for now. "Caden," she began softly, her voice laced with desperation, "I promise I won't interfere with your relationship with Alicia. I won't get in your way. Please don't send me away."

Caden stared at her silently before sending a message. "Please, Caden," Yolanda pleaded, her voice shaking. "I'll take care of myself. I won't be a burden. Just let me stay in Warrington."

The more she pleaded, the more indifferent he seemed. "Yolanda," he said evenly, "don't invest your emotions where they aren't wanted."

Tears welled in her eyes. Was loving him silently, from afar, not even an option? A lump formed in her throat. "Okay, Caden… I'll do as you say. I'll focus on getting better." Staying in Warrington offered a glimmer of hope.

Caden checked his watch and nodded. "You should go back to the Joy mansion." He grabbed his coat and walked past her without looking back.

Yolanda stared in surprise. "Caden, aren't you going to spend time with Lina?"

"Another time," he replied coldly. "I have something else to do tonight."

Stunned, a sinking feeling settled in Yolanda's chest. A suspicion of Caden's plans flickered, casting a shadow of sadness over her. Ten minutes after his departure, she silently decided to follow him.