Chapter 152
Recently, the weather in Warrington had turned quite cold and wet. Concerned for Ciara's comfort, Caden suggested she postpone her visit until the weather improved. Ciara always trusted his judgment. Over the phone, he warned her, “It's getting colder. Wrap up warm. You seem always wrapped up in work. Are you taking care of yourself? Are you eating well?”
Sitting on the tub's edge, Caden checked the water temperature, assuring her, “Don't worry. Everything is under control.”
Curious about the background noise, Ciara asked, “What are you doing?”
“I’m about to take a bath,” Caden replied, glancing toward the door.
Ciara observed, “It’s still daylight. Isn’t that a bit early?” Caden smiled silently.
“Grandma, I have to go now,” she said, ending the call. She wrapped a towel around her waist and returned to the bedroom. The bed was untidy but cozy, with Alice resting in the center. The blanket around her waist barely concealed the marks adorning her legs and back. Caden's eyes lingered on these red reminders of their passion. His touch wasn't rough, yet Alicia's sensitive skin bore the marks of their encounters—marks that faded and reappeared, silent affirmations of their intense connection.
“Are you still catching your breath?” Caden teased, playfully holding her close, his chest against her back. “Bath time.”
Alice, her cheeks still glowing, buried her face in the mattress and bit her lip. "Let's rest a little longer. You go ahead," he murmured, his voice hoarse.
Caden acknowledged her exhaustion but gently carried her to the tub, determined not to overexert her. As they settled in, Alicia's phone rang. Recognizing the tone, Caden handed it to her without looking. The caller ID displayed a woman's name. Alicia recognized it and stood abruptly, splashing water. Caden, soaked but attentive, watched, waiting for an explanation.
“Hello,” Alicia greeted warmly, as Caden joined her in the tub. Water cascaded over the edge. She spoke firmly into the phone. “Two o'clock, okay? Okay. I'll be there on time. Thanks.” After hanging up, she found herself in Caden's embrace.
“Was this an interview?” Caden asked.
Smiling widely, Alicia replied, “Yes, for a music teacher position at Los Academy. Mr. Hopkins recommended me to the headmaster, who seemed quite impressed.” As they settled into the cramped tub, Caden mirrored her happiness.
“The Academy, huh? Lots of rich kids. Think you can handle the noise?”
Alice laughed. “The director offered a good salary, so a little noise is a small price to pay.”
Caden playfully splashed her. “And what is the salary?”
“Twenty-five thousand dollars before taxes,” Alice said, leaning towards him wearily. “I am delighted. I haven't worked for a while, and I need to save significantly to open my art gallery.”
Caden, half-jokingly, frowned. “Really? You could easily sweet-talk me with a little flattery.”
Alice's answer was gentle but firm. "I'd rather not depend on a man."
Overwhelmed by her presence and softened by her touch, Caden found her irresistibly attractive. His hands moved underwater, pulling her closer. Alicia resisted, but her strength was no match for his. Water erupted as she protested, “Caden, that's enough! We’ve reached our limit for today.”
His gaze intensified. “Isn’t this the perfect way to celebrate your new job?” he coaxed, the tension sizzling in the humid air. Alice repeatedly said no, biting her lip in protest, struggling to free herself. Worried about hurting her, Caden offered a compromise. “This one counts for tomorrow.”
Alice paused, then countered firmly: “You broke the rules, so you must be punished. This should negate the next three times.”
Caden laughed, incredulous. “You're incredibly greedy.”
“If you don't agree, let me go,” Alice demanded.
Caden tried his cunning, targeting her weak points, but Alicia stubbornly resisted, gritting her teeth. Unable to convince her, he capitulated.
“Okay,” he reluctantly agreed and leaned in to kiss her, but she turned her face away. At that moment, the puppy, alerted by the noise, ran into the bathroom. Startled, Alice splashed into the water.
“Why didn't you close the door?” she asked. The puppy, mistaking her splashing for play, wagged its tail excitedly and circled the tub. Caden, disgusted, waved dismissively. “Lucky, out.”
Alice looked up sharply. “What did you just call him?”
Caden, looking at her and then at the slight swell of her abdomen, replied with a soft chuckle, “Lucky. Isn’t that a pretty name?”