Chapter 393

“Thank you for helping me acquire this gem. I’ll send you the payment upon my return.”

Caden smiled. “You obviously like it. Why not keep it?”

“Jewelry carries significant meaning, and given our circumstances, it’s inappropriate.”

“And what kind of relationship would make it acceptable? If Blake gave it to you, would you accept it?” Caden’s gaze intensified, demanding an answer.

Alicia’s tone was flat. “Not at this moment, but who knows? Mr. Langstaff is a fine man. I might fall for him someday.”

Caden’s expression remained neutral. “Can you fall for two men simultaneously?”

Alicia’s eyelashes fluttered. She couldn’t bear his smugness any longer; it felt like he completely controlled her, and breaking free seemed impossible. Bowing her head, she murmured, “Change doesn’t happen overnight, and people aren’t meant to remain stagnant forever.”

Caden’s brow furrowed, but he suppressed his irritation. “Fine, we’ll proceed at your pace.”

Alicia sensed his impatience. “You don’t need to tolerate me. I’m difficult, fragile, and overly emotional. Even if I agreed to try again with you, it wouldn’t last.”

Without another word, she tore the necklace from her neck and threw it at him, shoving him aside before leaving. Caden remained motionless, his lips pressed into a firm line, clutching the necklace. He took a deep breath and stayed put, not following her.

Shortly afterward, Jasmine approached. “Mr. Ward, Mrs. Ward asked me to inquire about your progress with Ms. Bennett.”

Caden was silent for a moment before replying somberly, “Tell her everything is going well.”

Caden opened the door and sat facing Ray, who cowered, too intimidated to speak. Their eyes met, and Ray seemed overwhelmed by his autism.

Caden asked, “Do you like the lady from earlier?”

Ray quickly shook his head.

“Then why do you only eat the food she offers you?”

Ray felt a blush creep onto his cheeks. He hadn’t expected such a direct question, so he reluctantly nodded. “It’s not that I like her; I just think she’s a kind person.”

Caden said coldly, “So you can talk. I thought you were mute.”

Ray looked down. Caden approached, placing his hands on Ray’s knees and leaning closer. Ray felt fear but remained still.

Caden stated, “If you like her, you should invite her for dinner tonight.”

Ray stammered, his voice trembling, “Me?”