Chapter 108

Randolph paused, surprised. “That’s all? Just because she’s your ex-sister-in-law?”

Caden’s smile widened slightly. “What else could it be?”

Randolph was silent, searching for an answer. He finally chuckled. “Fair enough. I guess he’s like family to you.” Randolph had never been comfortable with Caden’s involvement with his sister-in-law; however, once assured Caden's interest in Alicia was merely polite concern, a wave of relief washed over him. He steered the conversation back to business.

Opportunities to collaborate with someone like Caden were rare, even though Randolph always turned a good profit. After all, who wouldn't welcome more money? He leaned toward Caden, adopting an overly admiring tone to entice him into the deal. Caden listened silently, then looked at Randolph.

"What do you need, Mr. Ward?" Randolph asked.

Caden replied nonchalantly, "I think I could use some hangover soup right now."

Randolph was speechless, but concealing his frustration, he brought the soup, his displeasure evident. Caden took a sip. "Joshua has been handling your banking, right?"

Randolph looked away. "In business, it's wise to have many valuable clients," he said. "But when it comes to generosity, you cannot compare to him, Mr. Ward."

Caden took another sip. Randolph leaned forward. "Mr. Ward, what do you say? Three hundred million is a small amount for you."

Caden pursed his lips. "The soup is too sweet. Tell your maid to use less honey."

Randolph was dumbfounded. Is Caden playing me? he wondered.

Caden set down the bowl. "Take it easy. Joshua's doing well. I'll ensure he assists you more if the opportunity arises."

Randolph smiled politely. "No need to bother, Mr. Ward. I can always contact Joshua directly. He wouldn't refuse."

Caden replied with a slight smile, "Oh, yeah?" It was clear Randolph held some sway over Joshua. Finishing their business, Caden looked out the window. High-society individuals basked in the afternoon sun, chatting. The scene radiated elegance and luxury, but Alicia was nowhere in sight.

Meanwhile, Alicia emerged from the bathroom to a sudden scream. She turned to see Ted, wielding a large water gun, spraying her. He'd caught her completely off guard, soaking her instantly. Her silk dress clung to her body, leaving her feeling exposed and humiliated.

Ted laughed loudly, mocking her. "Look at you, ugly duckling! Everyone can see you!"

Alicia's expression hardened. Ignoring the water, she grabbed her dress, searching for a weapon. She wouldn't let him get away with it. Realizing what she intended, Ted ran, taunting, "Come on, ugly girl! Catch me if you can!"

Alicia quickly caught him. He struggled, but she grabbed his hair and gave him a hard lesson. He was surprised by her strength and inability to escape. Overcome with fear, he burst into tears.

Alicia let him go, regarding him thoughtfully. "You're lucky you're a boy. Try that again, and next time it won't be so easy."

Ted shouted angrily, "Witch! How dare you hit me? I'll tell my mother!"

Alicia's gaze hardened, but before she could react, a maid rushed over.

"Miss Bennett, you should change before you catch cold," the maid suggested. "Why don't you go and change your clothes?"

As Ted ran off, Alicia decided to let it go, for now. "Is this how everyone in the Reyes family behaves?" she muttered, wringing out her dress. Ted was a child, but his language was unacceptable.

The maid remained silent, guiding Alicia toward a small building across the courtyard. It was a short walk within the property, so Alicia didn't question it.

"Why do I have to change here?" she asked.

The maid smiled politely. "Miss Bennett, your clothes are soaked. You probably don't want the security guards to see you like that. It's closer here, and you can change quickly before returning."

She opened the door, offering Alicia clean clothes. Alicia noticed her dress had become nearly transparent, revealing her underwear. It was hardly appropriate.

After the maid left, Alicia quickly changed and hung her damp dress to dry. Outside, a small pond reflected the afternoon light. The water was pristine and calm, surrounded by flowers. Alicia breathed deeply, enjoying a brief moment of peace.

Unfortunately, peace was short-lived. He rested with his eyes closed when someone entered. He assumed it was the maid, but it was Ted, this time with a group of other children. Without warning, Ted aimed his water gun at her, hitting her in the eyes. Her vision blurred, and before she could react, Ted struck her with a stick.