Chapter 276:

Gerry signaled the waiter for another plate. He then poured Caden a drink, chuckling as he whispered, “Did Alicia kick you out?”

Caden replied emotionlessly, “That won’t happen. Not in a million years.”

“So why aren’t you eating at home?” Gerry asked.

“I just wanted a change of pace,” Caden replied, grabbing a glass of wine and drinking it before touching his food. His empty stomach churned as the alcohol mixed with stomach acid, but strangely, he felt a little better.

Gerry continued to mock, “A change of pace? What a coincidence. Me too. Wouldn’t it be a shame if no one got to enjoy the great meal Alice prepared? I think I’ll go, so her hard work doesn’t go to waste.”

Caden remained expressionless. “Gerry, are you crazy?”

Gerry, unable to contain himself any longer, slammed his hand on the table, bursting into laughter.

That night, Alicia planned dinner with Monica. As she was about to leave, her assistant knocked, looking uneasy.

“Miss Bennett, there’s an elderly client here, and I’m not sure how to handle him.”

“Why?” Alice asked.

“He’s older and a little intimidating, and this is his first time visiting our gallery.”

Alice laughed. “I’ll see what happens.” Her assistant, carrying files and a laptop, followed.

“It’s not that older people shouldn’t be here. It’s just that… she has a strong presence, and I’m afraid of saying something wrong and offending her.”

Alice, picturing older women in high society, considered several names, but none seemed to fit when she saw the elderly woman. Ciara’s snow-white hair was carefully styled. She wore no extravagant jewelry, yet her wealth and status were evident.

Alicia stepped forward to greet Ciara, who saw Alicia up close for the first time. “Mrs. Bennett, I came because of your reputation. I’d like to buy two paintings,” Ciara said with a warm smile. “Could you recommend some?”

Alice replied kindly, “Ma’am, do you have a favorite artist?”

“No. I’ll leave it to your recommendation.”

Buying paintings was merely a pretext; Ciara’s true intention was to curry favor with Alicia on Caden’s behalf. Alicia, having just opened her gallery, desperately needed funds.