Chapter 31

As Alicia and Caden approached the restaurant, they saw Gerry emerging. He positioned himself between them and inquired, "Did you encounter any problems getting here?"

Caden replied nonchalantly, "Everything was handled."

Gerry, still appearing uneasy, pressed further. "Did you actually find something? Thank goodness you went. But why were you so eager to find Alice then?"

Caden paused, glancing at Alicia. "I lost something and needed to check the locker room—it's an apartment," he explained.

"What the hell?" Alice muttered.

She understood his meaning. "Caden, you're crazy," she growled.

Gerry frowned, confused. "What are you talking about? 'Flathead'? What's that?"

Alice remained silent.

Caden smiled, clearly enjoying the situation.

Once inside their private room, Alicia turned to Gerry. "Lilliana had a major incident today. As her boss, why didn't Caden intervene?"

Gerry laughed. "Caden bought the company Lilliana works for, just for fun. He's a laid-back boss."

"But with such a significant loss, don't you care at all?" Alice persisted.

"A loss?" Gerry nearly roared with laughter. "You've been arguing with Caden for so long, and you still don't get it."

Alice's curiosity intensified. "Lilliana is now under your supervision; their interests are intertwined. How can there be no losses involved?"

Gerry explained, "Before Caden returned, he'd already acquired several major platforms, he just hadn't announced it. Now, with Lilliana's song promotion, all the money Joshua and the Green family invested is going straight into Caden's pocket."

Alice was dumbfounded. She finally understood Caden's strategy—to outsmart Joshua. Caden knew Joshua harbored resentment and would compete relentlessly. Even though Joshua lacked funds, he'd divert money from his own company to match Caden's support of Lilliana. Ultimately, all of Joshua's efforts were futile. The money vanished, Lilliana's lip-syncing was exposed, and she logically terminated her contract. Caden profited without losses and thwarted Joshua.

Alicia turned to Caden. He slowly smoked a cigarette, a smile playing on his lips—a blend of sophistication and mischief.

Alice muttered, "Clever."

Caden flicked his ash. "Keep complimenting me. I love it."

Alicia asked, "Did you know Lilliana lip-synced?"

"I knew her song was being bought," Caden replied, his gaze fixed on her. "I just didn't expect the seller to be you, Miss Bennett."

Alice responded, surprised, "Oh."

"So, when you came to the dressing room, you intended to praise me?" Caden continued, then looked away, chuckling. "Did your dignity end up in my car, too?"

Alice pressed her lips together, concealing her frustration. Gerry watched their exchange.

"It's been so many years. Aren't you two tired of fighting?" Gerry asked thoughtfully. "This time, you're both targeting Joshua. Why not join forces?"

Alice's smile vanished. Her expression hardened. Caden remained unfazed. "I can't ally myself with someone so foolish."

Gerry was speechless. Clearing his throat, he suggested drinks.

Alice declined, claiming she got drunk easily. Caden remained silent.

After several drinks, Gerry became more talkative. "Do you think Joshua will still cling to Lilliana after this?"

Alicia sipped her juice. "You don't hang out with Joshua much. Why do you dislike him so much?"

Gerry chuckled. "It's because he and Caden don't get along! Anyone who crosses my best friend becomes my enemy."

Alice was speechless.

Caden stated clearly, "He's almost drunk and manipulating your emotions."

Alicia's mouth twitched. "Has Joshua ever upset you?"

Caden chuckled. "Why are you interrogating me? Do you feel sorry for that asshole?"

"No, but if it bothers you…" Alice began.

"It bothers me. Your question is frustrating," Caden interrupted. Tension filled the air. Their relationship was defined by such invisible conflicts—sharp reminders of their irreconcilable past.

Gerry soon passed out. Caden continued drinking, his emotions hidden. A heavy silence fell. Alicia sensed Caden's coldness stemmed from her presence, prompting her to consider leaving. She noticed Gerry's intoxication but hesitated to mention it.

As she was about to leave, a bright light illuminated the building across the street. A huge billboard displayed a photo of Joshua and Lilliana, smiling happily. The screen scrolled, revealing bold lettering: "Lilliana, will you marry me?"