Chapter 445:

Caden hadn't meant his comment; he simply enjoyed teasing her. Seeing her pleading expression, however, he couldn't resist pushing further. "Look, Grandma may claim to adore me, but she's not lenient with punishments. You're not expecting me to take the blame for you for free, are you?"

Alicia stared into his eyes, seeing the mischief there, but realizing she had little choice. Heart racing, she leaned into his embrace. Caden wrapped his arms around her waist, reveling in the feel of her against him.

"Then…" Alicia murmured, "what if I grant you a request? Nothing excessive, mind you."

He noticed her ear redden as she paused. "Something… in bed."

Caden felt the blood rush to his lower body. He swallowed hard. "How about you wear an outfit I choose?"

Alicia's cheeks burned. Caden had suggested this before, but she'd backed down after seeing the pictures. She'd vowed never to wear them. Now, however… he had her cornered.

"Fine," she conceded, "but nothing too revealing."

Caden's eyes darkened. Leaning closer, he whispered, "The bunny outfit, and white stockings." Alicia shivered, swallowing her pride and nodding meekly.

Without delay, Caden scooped her up and carried her to their bedroom. Thankfully, they were finished before Ciara returned home. Seeing Caden made her so happy she forgot all about her birds.

At dinner, Alicia ate quietly, glancing pointedly at Caden. He peeled a shrimp, placing it on her plate before speaking. "There's something I need to tell you, Grandma."

Alicia's heart leaped. Was he going to confess? Guilt-ridden, she couldn't meet Ciara's gaze.

"Why aren't you eating?" Ciara chided. "You need meat and vegetables." She added side dishes to Alicia's plate before turning to Caden. "What is it?"

"I've been smuggling firearms into the city by the truckload," Caden declared nonchalantly. "The higher-ups were furious when they found out."

Alicia nearly choked on her fork. She stared at Caden, eyes wide, face flushed. Ciara gasped.

"When did this happen?"

"Earlier this year. I started earning a lot, but it proved trickier than expected."

Ciara's expression hardened. "How bad is it? Can it be fixed?"

Not wanting to alarm her, Caden grinned. "I was kidding, Grandma."

Ciara was speechless. Before she could scold him, Caden pressed on. "It's something else."

Ciara clutched her chest, sighing wearily. "Can it be worse than illegal firearms?"

"Your pet birds are gone."