Chapter 250:

Yolanda remained under the radar, focusing on her recovery. Caden had secured a top-tier doctor, and her parents diligently cared for her at Joy Mansion. Every detail was meticulously managed. Yet, Yolanda showed no signs of improvement.

Dorian suggested they spend Christmas at the mansion, hoping the holiday might bring a change. Ciara immediately grasped his true motive: Yolanda's reluctance to return home, and her desire to remain near Caden.

"You should speak with Caden," Ciara advised. "I'm unsure if we'll have other guests this Christmas."

Dorian picked up on the subtle implication. "Other guests?" he questioned. The Yateses were Caden's only Warrington relatives, but hadn't their families long severed ties? "What do you mean, Mrs. Ward?"

A warm smile softened Ciara's face. "Dorian, you've likely heard Caden is in love."

Dorian's eyes widened. "Yolanda has mentioned it several times," he admitted. Then, thoughtfully, he asked, "Is Caden planning to bring her home for Christmas?" In the Ward family, such an invitation strongly signified marriage intentions.

Ciara sighed softly. "Dorian, how can you be more confused than I am? I just said I'm unsure." In essence, there was a fifty-percent chance Caden would introduce his new love to the family. The potential for an awkward encounter between Alicia and Yolanda loomed large. Dorian understood this.

However, he perceived Ciara's tone as overly aggressive. "I remind you, Caden hasn't made her his official companion," he replied coldly. "Are you trying to intimidate me with this?"

Ciara responded calmly, "How is that intimidation? I only mention it out of concern for Yolanda. A scene would reflect poorly on her."

"Yolanda will cause no trouble," Dorian asserted. "Mrs. Ward, please remember the reasons for Yolanda's current situation."

Ciara refused to accept the implied blame. "Dorian, are you suggesting we are at fault? Let's be clear: your family pressured you into this marriage. Caden could have refused me. Did he?" Her tone was icy.

"He had his ambitions, and he knew my family could facilitate them," Dorian replied. "I made that clear from the outset, and he agreed. And now this is all our fault?"

Ciara was speechless. Dorian was right. In the world of business, power reigned supreme, dictating all terms. Both families possessed the wealth to fuel their ambitions.