Chapter 26

The next day, Caden invested heavily in promoting Lilliana's new song. Thanks to the Green family's previous efforts, the news spread rapidly. Lilliana, overwhelmed by the unexpected support, decided to express her gratitude with a gift.

"Mr. Ward, do you really believe in me this time?" she asked, her joy evident. "I promise I won't let you down. I will definitely win."

Caden maintained a neutral expression, reviewing documents without responding. Hank entered with coffee. "Mr. Ward..."

Lilliana quickly intercepted him. "Let me handle it, Hank."

Hank hesitated, then relinquished the coffee and left. Lilliana placed it beside Caden. "Mr. Ward, enjoy your coffee," she said sweetly.

Caden remained impassive. "You can go now," he said abruptly, leaving Lilliana momentarily stunned. Knowing his serious work demeanor, she offered a quick greeting and departed.

Silence descended on the office. Caden then summoned Hank.

"Throw that fucking cup away," he growled. "If a woman touches my belongings again, you'll find yourself in the trash along with it."

Realizing his mistake, Hank disposed of the coffee and hesitantly inquired, "Miss Bennett has been spending more time with you, sir. Is your condition improving?"

Caden glared. "Are you prying into my personal life?"

Hank, initially about to nod, quickly retracted the gesture. "It's Mrs. Ward who keeps asking," he said cautiously. "She's older and worried about your health. She texts me daily since you don't answer her calls."

Caden frowned. "Keep matters concerning Alicia to yourself. Don't let my grandmother find out," he firmly instructed.

Hank nodded in understanding. Caden's unusual illness had caused his grandmother, Ciara Ward, to become overly protective and actively try to match him with women. If she learned of Alicia's involvement, she would relentlessly pursue a commitment.

"Sir, the madam said that..." Hank began, but paused, noticing a mark on Caden's face. "Mr. Ward, what happened to your face?"

Caden remained neutral. "I got scratched by a stray cat."

"But sir, that doesn't look like a scratch. It looks more like a bite mark," Hank replied, his concern growing.

Caden's narrowed eyes delivered a warning that made Hank recoil. He quickly closed his mouth and left.

The next day, Hank reported that Joshua had doubled his investment in promoting Lilliana's song.

Caden smiled. "Then we'll match that amount."

Hank understood and immediately acted. They doubled their investment, prompting Joshua to increase his funding again. A rivalry ensued, each striving to surpass the other.

Within hours, Lilliana's song topped several charts, becoming an overnight sensation. Her fanbase exploded, and her popularity soared. The internet buzzed with anticipation for the song's release.

The success exceeded Lilliana's expectations, leading to prolonged boasting to Joshua. He, however, remained quietly unenthusiastic in his office.

"By the way, Joshua, has Iris sent you the song yet?" Lilliana asked. "We only have three days to inform Gerry. Don't screw it up."

Joshua replied casually, "She mentioned she'd deliver it tomorrow."

Lilliana dismissed the concern, shifting responsibility. "Just keep an eye on him for me."

"Sure," Joshua replied, unfazed by her nonchalance. It no longer bothered him.

Lilliana settled onto his lap, embracing him affectionately. "Thank you, sweetheart. I didn't expect you to invest so much in my song."

Expenses, beyond promotion, were mounting astronomically.

Joshua chuckled softly, choosing not to reveal his secret rivalry with Caden. "What matters most is your happiness, no matter the cost," he reassured her, knowing the Green family would ultimately cover the expenses.

Lilliana, still captivated, beamed. "It's still early. Abigail just launched a new haute couture line. Will you join me in picking one out, Joshua?"

Joshua readily agreed. As they headed to the boutique, he hugged her, feeling content. Upon entering, something familiar caught his eye. He stopped abruptly, recognizing Alice in the crowd. ...