Chapter 427:

Kasumi's face fell at Yolanda's outburst. "Honestly, Yolanda, you've known Caden for ages. Why didn't you ever make a move? If you were in Alicia's place, I wouldn't be feeling so humiliated right now."

Yolanda retorted sharply, "Caden's affections aren't a gamble. Even if I were with him, he wouldn't collaborate with you unless it was strategically advantageous."

"Why say things to upset me? You're not even with him," Kasumi countered.

The words stung. Yolanda angrily ended the call. Despite trying to remain calm, a surge of frustration tightened her chest, leaving her dizzy and breathless. She sank into a chair, closing her eyes to fight back the rising panic. When she finally opened them, tears streamed down her cheeks. She couldn't understand fate's cruelty. Frail since childhood, she had worked hard, built a life, and made her family proud. Yet, none of it had won Caden's heart. All she wanted was him—nothing more.

A wave of longing and frustration consumed her. Impulsively, she dialed Caden's number. He answered almost immediately. Hearing his voice deepened the ache within her.

"Caden… you're really with Alicia now, aren't you?" she asked, her voice trembling.

His tone was calm, steady. "Yes, she's my girlfriend." The words pierced her.

Her voice, vulnerable and pleading, wavered. "Why don't you ever look back at me, Caden? Is there something about me that's really that bad?"

Hearing her sorrow, Caden frowned but remained silent. After a pause, he instructed Dorian to check on her. He didn't reciprocate her feelings, but he couldn't bear to see her suffer.

Hanging up, he turned to Alicia. "Let's go."

Alicia didn't ask who had called. She knew Caden was private, but this time, he seemed lost in thought.

"Why don't you ever ask who calls or check up on me?" Caden asked.

Alicia was unconcerned. "Why would I need to?" she replied casually.

Caden raised an eyebrow. "Aren't you the least bit concerned it might have been a woman calling me?"

She shrugged, her expression light. "If you can resist temptation, why would I need to check up on you?"

Caden's tone grew serious. "But if you're so unconcerned about me, maybe one day, another woman will actually take me away from you."

Alicia remained unfazed, meeting his gaze steadily. "Then it would be pointless for me to try controlling you if your heart already belongs to her. Instead of worrying, I'd rather let you be free."

Caden was speechless, staring at her in disbelief. Seriously? Was she really that open-minded? He shook his head, smiling wryly.

As they stepped outside, a commotion near the entrance caught their attention. A tall man emerged from a sleek car, his striking features and confident demeanor radiating authority, followed closely by bodyguards.

Alicia glanced over, intrigued. "Who's this VIP?"

Caden followed her gaze. "Corey Hampton. He's a major player in tech, especially in digital intelligence."