Chapter 287:

Exhaling deeply, she retorted, "I sympathize, but I can't help. Perhaps you should contact the authorities."

Caden responded, "Then why not call them for the dog?"

"I'm responsible for Cade. I'm his owner," Alicia said, before changing her tone. She teased, "If you agree to be my pet, then of course I'll look after you too. Is that what you want?"

Caden fell silent, letting the argument lapse. "I don't have time for the dog. He can fend for himself. If he doesn't make it, I'll get another." His voice was cold and detached. Alicia recognized his deliberate provocation.

She rolled her eyes in exasperation. With the maid away and no one else available, she had reluctantly contacted him. "Alright, if you're not willing to help, let's leave it at that," Alicia said briskly, ending the call.

Caden's demeanor remained cold. Their exchange hadn't been overtly hostile, yet something about it deeply irritated him. Alicia had again profoundly provoked him.

After finishing work, Caden selected and brought home a robot. Activated, it wasn't solely programmed for household chores; feeding the dog was just one function. It was also equipped with dual cameras for continuous apartment surveillance.

Caden initiated a video call to Alicia. After she accepted, the camera showed Cade happily eating and wagging his tail. The robot even engaged in light conversation with Alicia, who responded casually. Caden was nearby, out of view. He scoffed. There she was, chatting with a robot, ignoring him as if he didn't exist.

That evening, Alicia attended a charity event. News photographs showed her looking absolutely stunning—poised and alluring. She stood out, a brilliantly blooming rose. Captivated by her elegance, Caden found it hard to look away. How could anyone be so effortlessly beautiful?