Chapter 273:

Ciara learned of the conversation shortly afterward and was immediately intrigued. “Oh? Making big moves all of a sudden? Does that mean you’re finally planning to settle down with Alicia?”

Caden raised an eyebrow. “And when exactly did you realize it was her?” Ciara rarely left her house, yet somehow she seemed better informed than anyone else.

“You two are completely crazy!” Ciara declared righteously. “How long did you think you could keep this from me? You brat! Everyone knows but me! What’s the big idea?”

Caden replied calmly, “I didn’t want to disappoint you, so I thought it best not to get your hopes up.”

Ciara snorted in disbelief. “And how can you be so sure this thing between you two won’t last?” Her excitement grew. “I even went to a fortune teller! She said you two are the perfect couple and will have at least three children together!”

Caden felt his temples throb. The mere thought gave him a headache. He had never wanted children.

“Do you really believe in fortune telling? They’d probably say that even a dog and I are a perfect match,” Caden said dryly.

Ciara remained undeterred. “I don’t care what anyone says. I think Alicia is a good girl. I really like her. She’s a pleasure to be with.”

“Everyone else finds her charming. I guess she only gets grumpy around me, ” he muttered, frustration mounting. He reached for a cigarette. Ciara gave him a disapproving look. Sighing, he put it away and picked up some fruit instead.

“What’s going on with you two lately? Another fight?” Ciara persisted.

Caden thought of seeing Alicia that morning. “She looked like she was possessed,” he replied.

Ciara clicked her tongue. “That’s ridiculous!”

“You don’t understand her. The quieter she is, the more I know something’s wrong,” Caden explained.

Ciara laughed. “Oh, you care about her so much. I knew it. She’s had you wrapped around her finger for a while now.”

Caden didn’t bother to deny it. He’d always been open about his feelings regarding women. To say she had complete control was an exaggeration. He was here to enjoy his life, not be tied down by love.

After spending some time with Ciara, he decided it was time to leave.