Chapter 410

“Do you need something, Mr. Langstaff?”

“It’s rainy, so I brought you a coat,” Blake said quietly. “It’s supposed to be colder tomorrow. I thought you might want it when you go out.”

“Thank you, but I’m already prepared,” Alicia replied, her voice polite but firm.

Blake, understanding her refusal, added, “I’ve already bought it. Should I keep it, or would you like it now?”

After a moment’s hesitation, Alicia said, “Keep it with you for now, thank you.”

Silence fell outside Alicia’s door. Just inside, Blake rubbed his nose in resignation and glanced at Caden, who leaned against the wall, arms crossed, a mocking smirk playing on his lips. They had encountered each other only minutes before. Noticing the coat, Caden had understood Blake’s intentions and they’d made a bet on whether Alicia would answer the door—a bet Blake lost rather embarrassingly.

“It’s normal to get turned down,” Blake muttered. “Especially at this hour. It’s understandable she’d be cautious.”

Caden responded coldly, “You work for her. What’s risky about handing over a coat?”

“She’s always cautious.”

“So cautious she won’t even glance your way?” Blake was speechless.

“You’re so childish, Caden.” Blake felt foolish for the bet. Did Caden truly believe he had a better chance with Alicia? He sneered, “Why don’t you try knocking and see if she lets you in?”

Caden was certain she wouldn’t open the door for him either, but he wouldn’t give Blake the satisfaction of mocking him. “I don’t need to knock.”

Blake stared incredulously. “Do you think I’m a—”

Caden produced a key card. Blake was stunned. Realizing Caden had access, he was astonished. “Is this how you chase women? It’s completely unethical and primitive.”

Caden toyed with the key card, smirking. “She likes guys like me, rough around the edges.” He straightened, his expression serious, and knocked on the door.

Blake watched intently, eager for Alicia’s response.

“Who is it?” Alicia’s muffled voice came from within.

“Caden.”

“Go away.”

Blake couldn’t suppress a smirk, throwing a mocking glance at Caden.

Unfazed, Caden replied, “Teasing can be a form of affection. Has she ever told you to leave?”

Blake was taken aback. Caden’s audacious response gave him pause. He admitted defeat gracefully. He started to leave, then stopped, turning back. “Do you act differently with Alicia than you do with me?”

Caden’s stare was cold.