Chapter 213

Caden’s expression darkened slightly. “I’m used to dining alone.”

Despite anticipating his reluctance, Yolanda couldn’t conceal her disappointment. Since childhood, she’d harbored a crush on him, and his current success and composure only intensified her affection. Lately, she’d begun to understand his reserved nature better; his cold demeanor concealed a meticulousness that intrigued her, drawing her closer.

“Caden, I’ve been in Warrington for days without leaving Joy Residence much. I’d love to explore the local cuisine,” Yolanda suggested, her eyes full of hope. “Will you join me for dinner?”

Caden’s face remained stoic. “It’s too cold outside.”

“We have a car,” Yolanda countered quickly. “It won’t take long. Besides, we have some business matters we could discuss over dinner.”

Caden massaged his temples. “Okay, pick a restaurant. I’ll take you.”

Yolanda’s face lit up. “Thank you, Caden,” she replied warmly. She grabbed her tablet and quickly made a reservation. While Caden returned to his paperwork, Yolanda chose a top-rated restaurant, unconcerned about the menu, eager only to spend time with him.

After confirming the reservation, she settled on the couch, stealing glances at Caden. She thought she was subtle, but he caught her watching him. He put away his pen resolutely. “Let’s go now.”

Yolanda, surprised by his readiness, stammered, “Now? So fast?”

“Yes,” he confirmed curtly. Caden often found the presence of women unpleasant. During work, as long as he remained focused, it was bearable, but in quieter moments, his discomfort was palpable.

Yolanda rushed to grab Caden’s coat, but he was quicker, putting it on effortlessly. When she hesitated, withdrawing her hand, Caden addressed her health concerns with cool detachment. “From now on, we’ll handle work-related matters over the phone or video chat. You don’t need to come to the office.”

Yolanda’s expression darkened slightly. “It’s not that far away.”

“I prefer it this way,” Caden replied firmly, his tone discouraging further argument. Yolanda nodded, masking her disappointment with a forced smile. “Understood, Caden.” She regained her composure and followed him to the car, remaining quiet in the backseat. Having been warned at the office about overstepping boundaries, she chose silence over admiring the car’s luxurious interior.

Her gaze fell upon a handkerchief in the backseat drawer—a new man’s handkerchief. Excitedly, holding it gently, she asked, “It’s quite cold. Can I wear this scarf?”

Caden, focused on the road, replied indifferently, “It’s yours.”

Excited, Yolanda put the scarf around her neck. She still didn’t know it was a gift from Alicia, now forgotten by Caden.

That evening, they dined at a luxurious restaurant on the top floor—a place Alicia had chosen for its opulence to impress investors. Aware that business dinners often involved alcohol, Caden had brought an assistant experienced in managing such situations.

As they entered the elevator from the basement, Alicia warned her assistant, “Don’t drink too much. If I give you a signal, stop immediately. It’s not worth risking your health.”

Her assistant asked, “Aren’t you allergic to alcohol?”

“I’ve taken pills to control it. It’s a minor allergy.”

“I’ll take care of it,” her assistant replied confidently.

The elevator stopped on the first floor. Looking up, Alicia saw Caden standing outside. Yolanda, the woman from the airport, was with him. Alicia quickly looked away when their eyes met briefly. Her assistant, recognizing Caden, expressed surprise. “Mr. Ward? Are you dining here too?”

Caden, who didn’t know the assistant but was aware of her relationship with Alicia, simply nodded. “Yes.”

Even with Yolanda beside him, Caden’s attention remained fixed on Alicia. Noticing Yolanda, Alicia’s assistant asked with a playful smile, “Is this your girlfriend, Mr. Ward? She’s quite attractive.”

Yolanda’s cheeks flushed, but she remained silent. Caden replied dismissively, “She’s just a friend.”

The two parties headed to the top floor, a fortuitous yet awkward coincidence. As the elevator ascended, Caden casually broke the silence. “Mrs. Bennett, what a coincidence. Business or pleasure tonight?”

Before Alicia could respond, Yolanda turned sharply, her eyes scanning Alicia’s face for any reaction.