Chapter 292:

“You lower your pride to convince me, all because you desire me, is that correct?” Alicia challenged.

Caden’s gaze was piercing as he admitted his desire. Days had passed since her return, and she had kept her distance. Now, so close, it was a struggle for him not to touch her. But his needs went beyond the physical; he craved more than her silence. Calming his rising anger, he suggested, “V., this need not be intimate. Let’s address the issue at hand.”

Alicia countered, her tone devoid of emotion, “There is nothing to address. If there is something between you and Yolanda, that is your decision.”

A shadow fell across Caden’s face. His voice instantly turned cold. “Oh, is that right? That’s very generous of you.” Tension filled the air.

“Like you said, Yolanda is important, and you should be more empathetic. Maybe you should just let her have me completely,” Alicia said flatly.

With those words, Caden abruptly pushed her forward, his hand wrapping around her delicate neck, forcing her to look up into his intense eyes. “Are you suggesting she take me? What am I to you that you think you have the right to decide where I belong?” he demanded menacingly.

Alicia remained calm. “You’re right,” she murmured, sadness clouding her eyes. “Caden, you’re not planning to marry me, are you?” The subject of marriage had always been delicate; she hesitated to bring it up, but at that moment, she longed for a promise from him.

Caught in a whirlwind of emotions, Caden quickly dismissed the idea. “Of course not.”

A sharp pain pierced Alicia’s heart. “If there’s no future for us, perhaps it’s best if you let me go,” she suggested.

Caden’s eyes were bloodshot. “Let you go?” he asked, then sneered, “Should I just waste all my efforts?”

Alicia’s complexion lost color. He had indeed been an important support to her.