Chapter 214:

Alicia was surprised when Caden initiated a conversation. He raised his stiff head and offered a strained smile. "I'm inviting my client to a business dinner," he said, glancing at her from the corner of his eye. He sensed the distance she maintained. Yolanda's presence, given their unfinished business, added to the awkwardness, leaving little to say. Alicia was relieved Caden refrained from inappropriate comments, but she couldn't ignore Yolanda's intense gaze—piercing, as if attempting to see through her. Alicia was uncertain about Caden and Yolanda's relationship, but she sensed Yolanda's feelings for him.

When the elevator reached the top floor, Alicia deliberately lingered to allow them to exit first. Yolanda instinctively tugged Caden's sleeve, then turned and offered a sweet smile to Alicia's assistant, her eyes lingering momentarily on Alicia's face. Alicia returned an emotionless stare. After a few steps, Yolanda released Caden's sleeve, avoiding potential conflict. Casually, she asked, "Caden, do you know the older woman from the elevator?" Caden replied, "He's younger than you," a comment that surprised Yolanda. His response suggested he remembered the woman's birthday, implying more than a passing acquaintance; he'd even initiated conversation in the elevator—unusual for someone who generally avoided female interaction.

At the restaurant, after Caden took a seat, he casually mentioned, "I glanced at your profile when it was archived. I remember all the recent new hires." Yolanda, after settling in and removing her scarf, smiled warmly and asked, "Did Miss Bennett also work at Blizzard Group before?" Caden's eyebrow rose, his gaze hardening. While he didn't mind Yolanda knowing about Alicia, he preferred to keep it discreet to avoid complications. "Let's focus on today's work," he suggested, turning to the menu. Yolanda's smile tightened slightly, a hint of jealousy stirring beneath her usual composure. "Okay," she replied elegantly.

Alicia maintained a professional demeanor with the client, focusing solely on work. She engaged in conversation, toasted, and drank, ensuring a smooth evening. Caden, mindful of his low alcohol tolerance and a mild allergy, politely declined further drinks after a few. However, the already intoxicated client insisted, and Alicia's overwhelmed assistant could drink no more. Taking a deep breath, Alicia resolved to continue, saying, "Mr. Hoffman, it's rare to see you so cheerful. I'll keep up with you until you've had your fill."

Caden, having finished eating and preparing to leave, stopped and told Yolanda, "Wait for me in the car." Yolanda's eyelashes fluttered. "Okay," she whispered. Caden approached Alicia. Yolanda, fists clenched, retreated to the bathroom. As Alicia reached for another drink, a hand stopped her. Her glass trembled slightly. Turning, she saw a familiar face, her heart tightening. The tipsy Mr. Hoffman sobered, exclaiming, "Mr. Ward?" Caden calmly returned Alicia's glass, asking, "What kind of party requires this much drinking?"

Alicia subtly signaled Caden not to interfere. His high status often led to condescending behavior, but she knew she would manage the consequences. The men at the table quickly responded, "That's enough, Mr. Ward. We were just making fun of Miss Bennett. She hasn't had much to drink." Caden's introduction of Alicia made their closeness apparent to everyone. Offending either of them over a few drinks seemed unwise. Alicia stared at Caden, his impassive expression and averted gaze betraying his anger, the reason for which she didn't comprehend. Bryant suggested they end the dinner. As Alicia continued to engage the client, Caden firmly grasped her wrist, ordering, "Go throw up that drink."

Alicia tried to pull away but couldn't. Feeling helpless, but trusting his intentions, she complied. She instructed her assistant to manage the situation before excusing herself to the bathroom. After emptying her stomach and rinsing her hands, Yolanda entered. Alicia saw Yolanda's reflection in the mirror. The sound of running water ceased. Yolanda adjusted her scarf, and upon seeing the logo, Alicia's heart sank. It was the scarf she had given Caden—now worn by Yolanda.