Chapter 699
Luckily, Caden hadn't been physically close enough lately to notice the small needle marks on Alicia's abdomen. That evening, after his shower, he drew her close, scrutinizing her features intently.
"You've gotten thinner, Alicia," he observed. "And your eyes look puffy." His eyes narrowed with suspicion. "What's been going on with you?"
Alicia's lips formed a small pout. "It's the stress over your business. It's weighing on me."
"Is that all? Just worried about that?" Caden queried.
"Is that such a trivial concern? You've never been this busy," she retorted.
Caden gently stroked her cheeks, peering into her eyes. "I know Mrs. Moss came by recently. What did you discuss?"
A sudden sadness washed over Alicia, leaving her feeling vulnerable. She didn't conceal her feelings. "She told me about the problems at your company. She thinks I should leave you to help save your reputation."
Caden's touch faltered. "And what's your take on that?"
Alicia's voice was steady, yet laden with emotion. "Caden, do you see me as a burden?"
"If I believed that, I wouldn't have defied Dorian for us," Caden responded firmly.
Alicia managed a weak smile and wrapped her arms around his neck. "I'm staying by your side, no matter the challenges, Caden," she said, her tone soft yet resolved.
Caden cradled her head in his hands; their unspoken words dissolving into a kiss that sealed their bond. His hand wandered under her shirt, softly tracing her waist. Alicia flinched at his touch on her needle marks but masked the pain by deepening the kiss. Caden, caught in her embrace, gasped for air.
"Why have you become so loving all of a sudden?" he said breathlessly. "Your kiss has gotten better. You've really improved your technique."
Seizing the moment, Alicia expressed a bold wish. "Caden, I want us to have a child together."
Caden gently brushed her lips. "Our engagement party is coming up soon, followed by the wedding after Christmas. Then, let's start a family right away, shall we?"
Alicia nodded in agreement. "I hope for a daughter."