Chapter 650: Alicia turned her back on the unfolding chaos. The sounds of Yolanda's cries, Caden's steady commands, and Regina's calm but insistent voice filled the room. It was utter chaos. Alicia wanted to leave, but something rooted her to the spot.
She consciously resisted anger, determined not to escalate the situation. But how many conflicts had she and Caden endured because of Yolanda? When would it end?
She didn't know how long she'd stood there when Caden's voice broke through her thoughts. Turning, she saw Regina's bodyguards attempting to escort Yolanda out. Defiant and enraged, Yolanda fought them off until Regina intervened, restraining her daughter.
"Your wounds are exposed. We need to go to the hospital now," Regina said sternly.
Yolanda's eyes flashed with disdain. She shook off her mother's grip. "Don't touch me!"
Regina's voice sharpened. "Yolanda, know your place. Caden helped you out of obligation, nothing more. You're not even his friend, so what right do you have to make a scene?"
Yolanda's patience snapped. "And what right do you have to lecture me?"
Regina's composure faltered momentarily. "I'm your mother, Yolanda."
Yolanda's expression twisted with bitterness. "You think you deserve that title? A real mother wouldn't side with others to humiliate her own daughter!"
The tension crackled. Caden tossed a crumpled tissue aside. "I need to check on them," he said, moving toward the commotion.
Alicia remained silent, waiting. As Caden approached, he witnessed Yolanda strike Regina hard in the chest with her elbow. Regina winced in pain, releasing her hold. Yolanda, poised to continue her tirade, noticed Caden and quickly composed herself, exclaiming, "I didn't mean to!"
Caden had a clear view of the incident. Yolanda had intentionally struck her mother with unexpected viciousness. Panicked, Yolanda realized her feigned innocence had crumbled. She decided a hasty retreat was her best option and quietly slipped away.
Regina's face paled as she softly released Caden. "Thank you, Caden. I'll manage," she whispered.
Caden frowned. "Let's go to the hospital to get you checked out."
Regina shook her head. "Your girlfriend is waiting for you."
By then, Alicia had approached. She had witnessed everything. Knowing the sensitivity of the area Regina had been struck, Alicia recognized the severity of her injury.