Chapter 671

The steam made it hard for Alicia to see clearly. Her heart raced with worry as she saw Caden clutch his hand, standing pale and motionless.

She said urgently, “Why are you just standing there? Run it under cold water immediately!” Was he planning to wait until blisters appeared before taking action?

Alicia rushed forward to grab his hand, but Caden quickly pulled it away.

She stood there, utterly stunned.

Caden seemed unfazed by the pain, his face emotionless as he replied, “Please don’t touch me. Isn’t that a bit too forward?”

Alicia stared at him as if he’d lost his mind. “Caden, are you out of your mind?”

Caden turned on the faucet, letting cold water flow slowly over his hand. “We should respect boundaries. What kind of relationship allows for this kind of contact?”

Alicia’s anger rooted her to the spot as she stared, wondering if he’d been possessed. Choosing to be direct, she asked, “Then how would you define our relationship right now?”

Caden replied calmly, “We’re boyfriend and girlfriend.”

“And a girlfriend isn’t allowed to touch you?” Alicia asked.

“No,” Caden replied plainly. “Only a fiancée can.”

Alicia’s voice grew hoarse. “Will you ever stop this? If I refuse your half-hearted proposal, are you planning to drag this on forever?”

Caden lowered his eyes, silently watching the water run over his hand.

Knowing how painful burns could be, Alicia held back from saying anything harsh and remained silent.

In a soft voice, Caden said, “It wasn’t a real proposal. I let my feelings get the better of me. I wanted you to be completely mine in that moment.”

Alicia blinked, momentarily taken aback. The fire of anger within her unexpectedly faded away.

Caden turned off the water and looked at her, sincerity shining in his deep eyes. “I’ve never treated you badly. Why would I hesitate about proposing?” He added, “That ring was just a simple piece of jewelry to me, not tied to marriage. I was hurt when you gave it back. Were you trying to end things between us?”

Alicia wanted to respond, but his words left her speechless.