Chapter 200

The male escort was hit in the eye, temporarily blinded, and incapacitated, collapsing to the ground. Alice seized a nearby object and reacted swiftly. The attacker, having underestimated her and launched a half-hearted assault, was unprepared for her rapid, forceful response. During the ensuing struggle, she smashed a vase over his head. Blood immediately spurted from the wound. The man stiffened, his eyes vacant, and fell as Alice watched intently.

Gasping for breath, Alice immediately called the police and knelt to assess her companion's condition. Fortunately, his injuries were minor. The police and an ambulance arrived simultaneously, transporting the assailant and his bodyguard to the hospital, while Alice proceeded to the police station.

In the police car, Alice watched the assailant on a stretcher, reeling from the shock. The altercation wasn't surprising, given her past dealings with Joshua and Lilliana. Recently, Caden had provided a much-needed stability, affording her a sense of peace. Her recent focus on Caden had, however, made her complacent about potential dangers.

Reflecting silently, Alice realized that without Caden's coach's self-defense training, she might have been seriously injured. At the station, she cooperated fully, providing a candid statement. "Don't worry, Miss Bennett. We're investigating thoroughly. Your cooperation won't be in vain," the officer reassured her.

This unexpected kindness surprised Alice. She felt undeserving of such courtesy, but expressed her gratitude. After completing her statement, the officer informed her, "Your family has been notified. Please sign here, and you may leave."

Confused, Alice replied, "My family?" Knowing Monica was incapacitated, she wondered who they had contacted. The agent clarified, "Mr. Ward. I vouched for you during your last visit. We remember him clearly."

Alice remained silent, now understanding the source of the polite treatment: it was because of Caden. She thanked the officer and then called Caden from the interrogation room. His response was detached: "You gave up sooner than I expected."

Alice tensed, her lips firm. "I just wanted to clarify that the police misinterpreted our relationship, and that's why they contacted you. You don't need to come. I can handle this myself."

After a brief pause, Caden replied, "I'm outside the station. You'll see me when you get out." Ending the call, Alice looked at her reflection and touched her side. The events left her shaken and in shock. Her stomach churned, her complexion ashen. She massaged her face vigorously, attempting to revive her pale features and regain composure.

Turning, she noticed the sergeant speaking quietly, his face worried. Noticing Alice's gaze, he dismissed the other person and approached her. "Did the suspect confess?" Alice asked.

"The hospital has certified him mentally ill. We cannot press charges," the sergeant replied.

Alice's expression darkened with frustration. Aware of the Yates and Green families' influence, she understood the limitations of police intervention. Needing a break, she asked, "Could you show me the back door?"

The sergeant, puzzled, asked, "Aren't you expecting Mr. Ward?"

"He's busy," she replied curtly, heading for the exit. Stepping outside, she saw a familiar car nearby, its hazard lights flashing. Her surprise was evident. Wasn't it supposed to be in front? How did it arrive so quickly?

Caden, sitting casually with one hand on the wheel, stared impassively out the rolled-down window. "Get in," he ordered, leaving no room for negotiation.

Alice ignored him and walked away. Caden commented, "I can come out and get you if I need to." This left her speechless.

Caden exited the car and lifted her into his arms. She resisted. He leaned close, his voice deep and resonant. "Your lips are pale with pain, and yet you resist?"

Alice felt her strength ebbing. Her hands went limp, and Caden settled her into the car seat. Realizing escape was futile, she chose to remain calm. The car's interior was warm, offering some comfort. Without thinking, she began warming her chilled fingers. Caden, with the same expressionless demeanor, removed his coat and offered it to her. She refused.

His tone was icy as he issued an ultimatum: "Put it on, or I'll get you. Decide." Alice was speechless. He seemed irrationally angry. Arguing seemed pointless. She silently took his coat, about to wrap it around herself when Caden pulled her into an embrace.

Worried that any sudden movement might complicate matters, she blurted out, "I'm on my period. It could be a mess."

Caden's response was unwavering. "I know."