Caden's new relationship with Alicia was the town's latest gossip. Although they kept it discreet, it was an open secret among their friends. Alicia's vulnerability, however, made her a target for those with past grievances.

Mrs. Reyes, particularly embittered after a humiliating experience at the Gray family event, seized the opportunity. Fueled by global accusations that intensified her embarrassment, she rushed to the school to cause trouble.

Instead of confronting Alicia directly, she went to the principal's office. At such a prestigious school, reputation was paramount. After careful consideration, the principal decided to speak with Alicia.

"Miss Bennett," he began, "Gerry speaks highly of you. Your contacts should easily secure another position. You've been exceptional these past few months, and as an apology, we offer a generous compensation package."

Alicia, prepared for this since her breakup with Caden, found the principal's seriousness unexpectedly reassuring. "To avoid disruption," she agreed, "I'll voluntarily resign."

The principal was startled. "Don't you feel mistreated?"

Alicia smiled, her eyes shining. "Not at all. I appreciate your recognition. Perhaps we could have dinner tonight?"

The principal, unprepared for her amiable response and feeling guilty, readily accepted. He even considered a parting gift. Alicia then bid farewell to her students, ensuring a smooth transition, and left the school.

Outside, Mrs. Reyes was chatting with several parents, subtly disparaging Alicia. Recognizing her usual pretentiousness, the parents dismissed her with laughter. As Alicia emerged, the group dispersed.

Mrs. Reyes, holding Ted's hand, looked self-satisfied. "Well, Mrs. Bennett, aren't you lucky? You can stop working for peanuts now. Actually, I need a maid. Are you interested?"

Alicia stopped, her eyes briefly meeting Ted's. Haunted by their last encounter, Ted cowered behind his mother. Annoyed, Mrs. Reyes pulled him forward.

Alicia smiled. "Ted isn't enrolled here. What brings you both to school?"

Unable to admit her true intentions, Mrs. Reyes fabricated an excuse. "I'm here to sign you up for some classes."

Alicia replied calmly, "You've come at the right time. I recently obtained my swimming instructor qualification. I could give you private lessons." She knelt, looking warmly at Ted. "Would you like some fun in the water, darling?"

The mention of water triggered a traumatic memory, causing Ted to cry. Surprised by his intense fear, Mrs. Reyes comforted him. Ted clung to her, his sobs escalating.

Alicia, observing silently, pointed at Ted's trousers. "Mrs. Reyes," she said, "Ted peed himself!" She then summoned a security guard. "Someone's had a mishap."

Mrs. Reyes's face flushed with embarrassment as she frantically checked Ted, finding him dry. Stunned by the realization she'd been tricked, she turned to find Alicia gone.

Following Alicia's resignation, the school notified Gerry, who, having just dined at Joy Mansion, immediately went to see Caden. He opened the door to find Yolanda, dressed in a loose sweater, offering Caden fruit. Their interaction, though not overtly affectionate, was subtly intimate.

Gerry cleared his throat. "Sorry, I seem to have arrived at an inopportune time."

Caden, impassive, declined the fruit. "You're not bothering me. Come in."

Yolanda, noticing Caden's polite refusal, softened. She placed the fruit down. "You two have business to discuss. I'll spend time with Ciara."

Once Yolanda left, Gerry addressed Caden. "What's going on with Yolanda? She's back, yet nothing's progressed. Are you stringing her along?"

Caden replied neutrally, "What did you want to talk about?"

Gerry raised an eyebrow. "It's about Alicia. Does that pique your interest?"