Chapter 16

Alice, bored after two hours of card playing, decided to switch games, hoping for a respite. Her luck improved immediately; she won the first two rounds effortlessly. During the third round, a tall figure appeared behind her—Caden, whose presence was undeniable. He replaced a player, settling in opposite Alice.

She gathered her cards and offered a small smile. “Mr. Ward, are you finally done with your busy schedule?”

Caden collected his cards elegantly, his refinement contrasting with the casual atmosphere. “I wasn’t busy,” he replied calmly. “I just didn’t feel like seeing you.”

Alice’s lips moved in response, but neither immediately addressed the elephant in the room.

“What happened to Lilliana’s face?” Caden asked casually.

Alicia gave a brief explanation, mindful of the other players. “He lost his temper and hit her face with my hand,” she said nonchalantly.

Caden paused, then placed down a five. Alice laid down her cards. “Four twos,” she announced.

Caden stared at her, lowering his voice. “Miss Bennett, I played a five.”

Unfazed, Alice retorted, “So what? It’s bigger than four twos.”

The ensuing silence was uncomfortable for the other player. Caden threw down his card and passed his turn. Alice rolled a three; Caden responded with a ten. Alice then put down her cards, smiling. “I have four of them.”

The player beside her leaned in. “Miss, you just threw a four. Am I not supposed to be your common enemy?”

Alice calmly replied, “I’m aware of that.”

The player, looking between Caden and Alice, mumbled, “What a strange way to flirt.”

Alice’s mouth twitched, but she turned to Caden. “Let’s keep it simple. Whoever finishes their cards first wins.”

Caden, sensing Alice’s ulterior motive, played another card. Alice quickly played her best cards, narrowly winning the round. She clapped her hands. “So, the deal to compose the song is done.”

Caden gave a half-smile before discarding his cards. The other player was confused. “What cards did you have? He had almost nothing left, and yet you couldn’t beat him?”

When the cards were revealed, the player was stunned. “A straight flush? Why didn’t you play it?”

Alice, realizing Caden had let her win, felt her victory diminish.

After the player left, a waiter brought two coffees. Alicia looked directly at Caden. “Why did you let me win on purpose?”

Caden’s silence was lengthy, but finally, a slight smile appeared. “Even if you beat me, it doesn’t mean you can beat Lilliana.”

Alice replied casually, “Mr. Ward, you seem very proud of her.”

“She has earned my pride,” he replied calmly.

“Oh, so it’s her skills that impress you,” Alice said sarcastically. “I thought you were only buying her company to get back at Joshua.”

Caden raised an eyebrow, unfazed. “Both,” he replied slowly.

Alice’s sincerity surprised her. “Have you slept with your lover?” she asked.

“For now, just with his wife,” Caden replied without hesitation.

A strange feeling stirred within Alice. “I’m not his wife anymore. We’re divorced,” she corrected.

Alice tried to change the subject, but her flushed ears betrayed her. She couldn't escape the memory of that night.

Caden noticed her reactions, a smile playing on his lips. She blushed easily, yet had the audacity to lie about a hymen repair. The irony amused him.

“Why the sudden divorce? Weren’t you making a fuss about that cheap ten-dollar ring a few days ago?” he asked.

Alicia was speechless. The ring, a painful reminder of her failed marriage, was insignificant.

Lowering his eyes, he said softly, “Since we’re done with business, I’ll be leaving.”

Caden’s eyes followed Alice as she stood. Then, Joshua’s car arrived. Caden stood, heading for the door without a word.

Joshua had come to pick up Lilliana. Seeing Alice leaving, he approached her. He intended to offer her a ride, but Lilliana threw her coffee at Alice, soaking her clothes.

Joshua’s expression darkened. Lilliana scoffed, “Oh, I was wrong, Miss Bennett. I thought you were the garbage can.”

Alice frowned, attempting to wipe herself down. Joshua started to get out of the car, but froze as Caden approached. Caden removed his coat and draped it over Alice’s soaked shoulders.