Chapter 414:

Alicia's lips quivered. Caden was adept at mind games, but Alicia wasn't easily manipulated. She created some distance between them. "Is this a genuine apology?"

Caden watched her intently, his eyes narrowed. Her calm demeanor suggested a plan. "I am being honest," he said, though a hint of confusion lingered. Impatient with contemplating her possible schemes, he chose honesty.

Alicia glanced around the room. "But I think your sincerity needs something more. It should involve fulfilling one of my requests."

Caden responded instinctively, "It can't be anything too extreme."

Alicia was surprised but suppressed a smile. "How could I be so heartless?" she shook her head.

"What is your request?" Caden asked cautiously.

"I want to record your apology," Alicia stated directly.

Caden looked doubtful. "Is that it?"

Alicia's gaze was piercing. "Yes, that's it. Will you record it?"

"If you record now, it'll be my first time," Caden said softly. Alicia's heart skipped a beat. He'd told her his first intimate encounter was with her; they were both starting anew. She swallowed, retrieved her phone, and got out of bed. "To the bathroom," she said, "I need good lighting to capture your face clearly."

Caden followed. "Will you watch it later?" he asked.

Alicia thought, No way! How could she be as obsessed as he was, needing daily sex? She didn't answer, instead setting up the phone stand. "Let's hurry and finish this recording so we can go to sleep."

Caden's gaze held a seductive charm. "Will you forgive me once I fulfill your request?"

Alicia nodded. Caden grinned, leaning against the wall, his eyes never leaving her. "While recording, will you be watching?" he teased.

Alicia averted her gaze, her throat dry. "No need to know what I'm doing."

After over an hour of adjustments, Alicia switched off the recording. She quietly fiddled with her phone for a moment. Exhausted, Caden pulled her into his embrace, wanting a kiss. "I don't enjoy smoking afterward," he murmured heavily, "Lucky, just kiss me for a little while."

Alicia's demeanor shifted, blocking his advances. Caden's brow furrowed. "What's the matter?"

Alicia's face was resolute. "What's the matter? What exactly is our relationship now, that I should kiss you?"

Caden felt despair. He could almost see Alicia's cunning smile. "Didn't you just say you forgave me?" he asked, frustrated.

Alicia feigned ignorance. "Did I say that? Where's your proof?"

Caden was stunned. "You..."