Chapter 374:
“Here, use this to cover the stains,” he said gently, his tone softening as he met her gaze. Alicia was momentarily startled but accepted the offered cloth without hesitation. “Thank you,” she replied.
Blake then signaled to a nearby maid. “This lady’s dress has been stained. Please escort her upstairs to change.”
Gerry stood speechless, feeling sidelined and utterly frustrated. His plans were thwarted, and a wave of disappointment washed over him; he had let Caden down. Alicia followed the maid upstairs, leaving Gerry, clutching an empty glass, to shoot a cool glance at Blake. Blake met his gaze with a smile.
“Mr. Hopkins, if you have feelings for Ms. Bennett, I’m sure there are many ways to pursue her. After all, you are wealthy and come from a distinguished family. But this… isn’t this a bit too overt?”
Gerry’s eye twitched at the insinuation. “Alicia and I are just good friends. That’s all. You’re reading too much into this.” He dropped the pretense, his tone hardening. “She’s already taken, so don’t get any ideas.” He turned abruptly and walked away.
Caden had just concluded an urgent matter when Gerry approached, looking concerned. “I was about to finish the task you assigned me, but Blake Langstaff intervened and stole the spotlight,” Gerry reported.
Instead of reprimanding Gerry, Caden furrowed his brow. “Blake Langstaff?” The name sparked a memory. He knew who Blake was. Gerry’s frustration seemed lost on Caden, who fixated on Blake’s identity.
Confused, Gerry asked, “You’re not worried about Alicia falling for him? You’re more concerned about who he is? Are you planning to do business with him or something?”
Caden looked around, unable to spot Alicia. Blake sat alone nearby. Caden then asked slowly, “If you were a woman, who would you choose? Blake or me?”
Gerry responded without hesitation, “Probably Blake. I’ve known you so long, it’s become a bit… dull. Maybe a change would be refreshing.”
Caden was speechless. He decided against pressing further. “Which room is Alicia changing in?”
Sensing Caden’s intentions, Gerry replied, “What about the favor you asked of me? Don’t you need me to handle that anymore?”
“What could you really do?” Caden said coldly.
“Can I still produce the film I want?” Gerry asked.
“That depends on my mood,” Caden replied sharply. Gerry was left speechless.
Alicia had changed into a simple gown. The dressing room door was locked, and a maid assisted her with her hair, the two conversing quietly. Caden quietly opened the door and entered. The dress she had worn earlier hung aside, near her phone. Caden picked up her phone. He assumed she might have updated her lock screen password, but to his surprise, it was disabled. He unlocked it easily.