Chapter 174

This time, Caden and Alicia only made out once. Afterward, I leaned back against the headboard and called Ciara. Alicia silently gathered her things and began to leave. Caden noticed her and looked up.

After a brief conversation with Ciara, he ended the call and asked, “Where are you going?”

“Get out,” Alicia whispered, subtly gesturing toward her phone. “Be careful, or your grandmother might hear you.”

Caden’s expression was unreadable as I watched him. “She’s in Warrington. That call this morning probably piqued her curiosity,” he muttered, throwing his arms up in frustration. “I’ve already hung up. No need to be so stealthy. Stay.”

Alicia hesitated, then lay down beside him.

Nervous, she asked, “Is Ciara coming?”

“No,” Caden reassured her. “He’s curious, but he knows he should keep his distance.”

Alicia snuggled into the blanket. “Why does he care so much if you have a girlfriend? A guy like you must have a lot of admirers.”

He gently touched her cheek. “She’s looking forward to me getting married.”

Alicia was surprised, but unable to see his expression. After a pause, she said, "That makes sense. He's getting older; it's about time he had a great-grandson."

Caden noticed her closed eyes. She looked sleepy, but her long eyelashes fluttered, betraying her wakefulness. He smiled. “How much would you give as a wedding present if I got married?”

Without opening her eyes, Alicia answered, "Two hundred dollars."

“Only two hundred?” Caden scoffed. “How about thirteen hundred? That’s the rate for my first night’s stay.”

Alicia’s eyes flew open, and she nudged him. Then, looking serious, she said, "If you get married, I won't go. It wouldn't be proper."

“Are you embarrassed?” he asked with a mocking smile.

She covered her face with the blanket. Her voice was muffled. “I’m going to sleep.”

Caden chuckled softly, turned off the light, and lay down beside her, holding her. Silence fell, then Alicia gently pulled away his arm.

“Do you have someone to marry?” she asked quietly.

"My family has arranged someone, but I haven't met her yet," he replied lazily.

“So you are,” she murmured, realization dawning. Sensing her unease, Caden added, “I’m only getting married when our collaboration is over.”

But Alicia felt a tightness in her chest.

“You should have told me before,” she whispered. Throwing back the blanket, she sat up and began to dress, her back to him.

Caden’s expression darkened; a flash of anger crossed his features. “Didn’t I tell you? Nothing is final yet.”

Alicia pressed her lips together. She decided silence was best and stood to leave.

“Where are you going?” Caden asked, his voice deepening.

“I’m going to sleep in the guest room,” she replied, her voice firm.

“Trying to avoid any awkwardness?” His tone turned icy. “Or do you think you’re somehow interfering with my engagement?”

Surprised by his frankness, Alicia paused. “I’m not that influential. It’s just that the new bed makes it difficult for me to sleep. I’d be more comfortable in the guest room.”

Caden’s expression hardened, his eyes narrowing. He knew his commitment made her uneasy.

"I haven't made any commitments," he said coldly. "You don't have to be so tense."

Alicia’s body tensed. She knew he wasn't serious, but it still made her uncomfortable. She silently stepped back.

“Have you forgotten our agreement?” Caden’s voice was sharp.

Alice replied firmly, "The agreement does not stipulate that we share a bed."

Her words stunned him. He cursed himself inwardly for mentioning the agreement.

Alicia opened the door and left, her heart uneasy. She knew their relationship was strictly contractual. Yet, memories of their shared moments lingered. Were they really just partners?

Before she could answer, another thought struck her: Alice, you two will part ways eventually. He is free to be with whomever he wants. Why do you let this bother you?

Determined not to let it affect her, she decided to let the matter rest. She knew dealing with Caden was like handling a spring: treat him well, and things would go well; challenge him, and he would make things difficult. So she acted as if nothing had been said.

The next morning, she made breakfast as usual. Caden poured himself water and glanced at the table. Nothing seemed amiss.

"Make me an omelette," he demanded, taking a sip, his face expressionless.

Alice stood firm. “Isn’t what I’ve done enough?”

"I'm not in the mood for this," he replied curtly.

"I don't have time. I have plans. Eat what's here or skip it," Alice said.

Caden’s gaze narrowed. “Mr. Wade is having an art exhibition tomorrow. Have you been invited?”

Alice paused. Was he threatening her? Anger flared. “It’s just an invitation. Do you think it’s exclusive to you? I don’t need you to take me.”

Caden scoffed. “And who else will take you?”

She stared at him, unfazed. “That’s none of your business.”