Chapter 253:

She nodded, her words certain. “The first time I visited your bedroom, I saw the photo on your bedside table. You put it away afterward, but I never forgot his face.” Lina's resemblance to Caden's mother was subtle, almost imperceptible, unless one knew the woman.

Alicia's heart ached as the realization dawned. "Caden, are you back for her? For your mother?" Her voice trembled more than she intended. She'd always known how deeply Caden loved his mother; the tragedies of his youth had left lasting scars. Yet, he never revealed any vulnerability around her.

He remained silent, his lips pressed tight, as if holding back unspoken words. Tears rolled down Alicia's cheeks, quickly brushed away. Silence stretched between them until Caden finally asked, "Why are you crying?"

His question caught her off guard, leaving her feeling humiliated by her intense reaction. "The wind must have blown something into my eye," she said, quoting a movie, hastily wiping her tears.

Caden, usually perceptive, feigned ignorance. "What wind? We're inland."

Alice couldn't believe him. She lightly slapped him. "Can't you just shut up for once?"

Caden took her hand, brushing away her tears. “I only came back for her. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have returned to Warrington.” He paused. “Don’t waste your tears on men. It’s never worth it.” He gestured for Lina to return to her place.

Alicia asked softly, "Aren't you worth it?"

Caden replied, "A man worth crying for wouldn't make his woman cry."

Alicia noticed Lina was distant. Leaning closer to Caden, she whispered, “You make me cry in bed. Does that mean you’re not worth it?”

Caden laughed. “Making you cry with pleasure is another story. That only makes it worth it.”

Alicia's face flushed as she pinched his arm. “Lina is still here. Have you no shame?” she whispered.

The pinch only intensified Caden's reaction. His body responded in a way Alicia couldn't ignore. He picked her up and started toward the living room.

Alice kicked her legs, struggling. “Put me down. I have so much work to do. I can’t stop now. I’m overwhelmed.”