Chapter 297

Dorian, enraged, exclaimed, "Yolanda is my cherished daughter! How can you be so indifferent? If you were in her place, would you remain so composed?"

This struck a chord in Caden. He remembered being slapped by Alicia on more than one occasion. Gathering his thoughts, he asked, "How did Yolanda end up hurt?"

Dorian scoffed. "You already know, don't you? Who but Alicia could be responsible?"

"Alicia must have had her reasons," Caden responded.

Dorian perceived Caden's response as supportive of Alicia. Though he didn't want to escalate tensions, he couldn't let it go. "Regardless of her reasons," Dorian asserted, "it was wrong for Alicia to become physical." He loomed over Caden. "Caden, Alicia acts so boldly because she has your backing. I support Yolanda, and I'll make sure Alicia understands the consequences of her impulsiveness."

Anger flared in Caden's eyes. "Mr. Moss, overreacting won't serve you well."

Dorian's sneer lingered. "Rest assured, I won't resort to violence against a woman."

After Dorian departed, several bodyguards emerged and blocked Caden's path. Despite their imposing presence, they posed no challenge to him. Then, Regina appeared. He waved off the bodyguards and ushered Caden into the living room with graciousness. Caden held deep respect for his elders, especially Regina, the unsung pillar of the Moss family. Renowned for her wisdom, perception, humility, and calm demeanor, she often moderated Dorian's more volatile nature.

Regina served tea and reassured him softly, "Don't worry. Alicia will be alright."

Caden remained stoic. "Regina, harm isn't only physical," he said, his voice steady. Knowing Dorian's character, Caden doubted that negotiations with Alicia would be simple.

Regina smiled gently. "Caden, it seems you care deeply for Alicia."

Caden responded vaguely, "Our relationship is complex."

"I haven't met her, so I can't judge her character," Regina continued. "But Yolanda was the one who confronted Alicia today. Their clash probably stems from you." She paused before adding, her tone neutral, "Yolanda is quick-tempered, and though Alicia's reaction was harsh, I can't simply overlook it."

Her tone chilled slightly as she disclosed, "That slap caused Yolanda moderate muscle tears and a mild concussion—the most severe injury she's had in decades."

Caden's brow furrowed in concern.