Chapter 294

She sent a message to her real estate agent: “Have you found any suitable properties?” The agent quickly returned her call. “Ms. Bennett, I’ve found three properties that meet your criteria. If you’re free tomorrow morning, I can show them to you.” Alicia knew she wouldn’t be able to go. “Send me the details and locations. I’ll make my choice,” she replied, acutely aware of the urgency to find a new home. Securing a new place was preferable to facing eviction from Caden.

After the call, she noticed Cade was missing. Panic seized her as she searched. Suddenly, a figure in white appeared. Alicia looked up to see Yolanda, holding Cade. Yolanda smiled. “Ms. Bennett, we meet again.”

Alicia watched warily as Yolanda gently petted Cade. Normally cautious around strangers, Cade would never have allowed this. But now, he was frozen, a wire tightly wound around his neck, the threat palpable. One wrong move, and he would be killed. Alicia was shocked by Yolanda’s ruthlessness—she had targeted a dog.

With clenched fists, Alicia said cautiously, “Yolanda, let’s sort this out. Please return the dog.”

Yolanda flashed a harmless smile. “He’s so obedient. I tempted him with food. If only you were as compliant.”

Seizing a moment of distraction, Alicia moved. But Yolanda tightened her grip on Cade. The dog whimpered; a faint red stained his fur. Agony pierced Alicia’s heart, forcing her to stop.

“What do you want?” she demanded, her voice hardening. “If he suffers any harm, I swear you won’t leave this neighborhood unscathed.”

Yolanda laughed softly. “Was I not clear? Alicia, is it really so terrible to live without pride?”

Alicia understood Yolanda’s intentions. You came for Caden? Don't worry. He will be yours in time. There's no need to rush my departure.

Yolanda asked, “Then why stay here? Are you unwilling to leave?”