Chapter 409

"What did she just say?" Alicia pushed against his chest, looking down. Caden realized his body had betrayed him. He took a deep breath, attempting to defend himself. "I was already like this at dinner."

Alicia smirked. "You could have just kept quiet."

Caden sighed. "It's completely normal to have desires, especially since I've just started exploring them. Now that I've had a taste, being this close but still untouchable is driving me insane."

Alicia pressed her lips together. "Have you forgotten your answer just now? You even asked me to trust you."

Caden replied with a smirk, "I mean it. It's not just about your body."

Of course, Alicia didn't believe him, and honestly, she was right not to. As soon as he finished speaking, Caden leaned in and kissed her before she could refuse.

Alicia had never been disappointed by his kissing skills. After being apart for so long, he was eager yet masterful, kissing her in a way that made her feel everything. He teased and toyed with her. People came and went, a few curious eyes drifting their way, but Caden didn't care. He only pulled back when he had stolen the last of her breath.

Alicia shoved him away, her face burning with anger and embarrassment. "Did you forget about our bet?" she whispered fiercely. "You… you lost."

Caden licked his lips, still wanting more. "Win or lose, being this close but still untouchable is driving me wild."

Alicia's anger flared. She glared at him before turning to leave. Caden leaned against the car, calmly smoking a cigarette and watching her go. Once he finished, and his desire had cooled, he drove to the hotel's underground parking.

Later, he went to the first floor, slipped the receptionist some cash to obtain Alicia's room number, and booked the room next to hers.

After her shower, Alicia felt a sense of calm. She tried to push thoughts of Caden aside and focus on her documents, yet the sensation of his kiss lingered. The memory surfaced effortlessly, refusing to be ignored. As she dwelled on it, her thoughts grew chaotic, leading her to bury her face in the papers and inhale deeply.

The wind howled louder. The vibration of the glass windows reminded Alicia of the day's thunderstorm forecast. Rainy nights were unwelcome, especially in a strange city.

Just as she reached for the curtains, a knock interrupted her. She paused. To her surprise, the first person who came to mind was Caden.

"What's up?" she called out.

"It's me, Blake. Are you awake?" Blake's voice was soft.

Alicia felt a wave of relief, though she had no intention of opening the door.