Chapter 538

Caden scoffed. “We’re related by blood. So what if we’re similar? Or do you think I should learn from you—how to intrude on someone else’s relationship?”

Thick-skinned, Blake didn’t flinch. “You and Alicia aren’t married. Anyone has a chance.”

Caden retorted sarcastically, “I bet even if we were married, it wouldn’t stop you.”

“If you don’t treat her right, she has every right to choose someone better,” Blake replied, observing Caden’s attitude but avoiding Alicia’s recent ordeal. A fierce competitiveness spurred him to speak boldly. “Alicia likes you now. Treasure this. If you lose her, I won’t.”

Caden’s smile widened, but a cold glint appeared in his eyes. “You think you’re worthy of being my rival?”

As Caden entered the car, an icy aura seemed to chill the air. Even in the summer rain, a chill radiated from him, unrelated to the weather. The car door slammed shut with a resounding echo.

Alicia’s heart pounded. She pressed her lips together, her gaze fixed on him, silent. Caden’s profile was a mask of sternness and brooding intensity; their conversation clearly hadn't been pleasant. Unable to bear his expression, she turned away in frustration.

Caden started the car, the engine’s low rumble amplifying the tense silence and Alicia’s simmering resentment. Benedict’s words, both today and during their first meeting, had shredded her self-esteem. Both times, Caden had been absent. Yet, he was angry.

The car sped toward their apartment building. Upon arrival, Caden broke the silence, his voice icy. “Get out.”

Alicia clenched her fists, battling her anger. “What did Mr. Langstaff say to you?” Did Blake tell him about Benedict’s bullying? If so, shouldn't he be comforting her? Why wasn't he?

The mention of Blake ignited Caden's irritation. He raised his voice. “Get out and go upstairs!”

Startled by his outburst, Alicia’s temper flared. “If you dislike me so much, why did you pick me up? Why not leave me on the roadside?”

Suddenly, Caden pulled her into his arms. Alicia struggled, but he held her fast, rendering her helpless. Desperate, she bit him. Caden cupped her chin, forcing her gaze upward before kissing her fiercely. The tension was electric, their raw emotions consuming them. Alicia bit his lip, drawing blood, but Caden remained unfazed. He tightened his hold, his mouth fierce against hers, his tongue tangling with hers—a strange attempt at appeasement and an outlet for his own frustration.