Chapter 313

Caden turned to face her. "Don't worry," he said. "I'm here for you, no matter what happens to Yolanda today." His words offered comfort, yet a hint of unease lingered.

"If I feared her, I wouldn't have confronted her. I apologized only to use the opportunity to end things with you," Alicia stated.

Caden's eyes narrowed. "End things with me?"

Alicia's heart shattered. "Yes. When you insisted I apologize, I made my decision. I would stop loving you."

A wave of dread washed over Caden. Panic surged. Had she shown any sign of relenting, he would never have let her go. But their stubbornness had prevailed, leaving both wounded, with no turning back. Alicia's gaze met his, her beautiful eyes devoid of emotion.

"Caden, you've supported me, helped me achieve success and recognition. I owe you that," she said, fighting back tears. "The gallery is yours. I'm stepping down. You need Yolanda, and you have the Moss family to consider. You're caught in the middle. It's okay. I'll withdraw. I refuse to be a pawn in your rich people's games. Caden, I cared about you. Even if there's no love left, my efforts weren't in vain. Remember the times we shared, and let me go."

Caden lifted her into his arms. Her frame was delicate; she couldn't resist. He saw tears welling in her eyes. His expression was intense as he studied her, fury simmering within him. For a moment, he was speechless. Then, "Alicia, are you really making such a big deal out of this?"

Alicia offered a cold smile. "A big deal? When I was in a car accident in Averibon, you called to say Yolanda was critically ill. Did you ever consider my situation? Weren't you worried I might die?" Her voice cracked with sadness.

Caden tightened his embrace. He hadn't rushed to her side because the caller had assured him her injuries were minor.

Her voice softened. "You've made your choice between me and Yolanda clear. I wanted to overlook it, to stay because my love was so deep. But Caden, you've let me down too many times. You've made me feel insignificant. I asked if you would marry me, and you couldn't even offer a comforting lie." A single tear fell onto Caden's finger.

His body stiffened. His throat tightened. "I was wrong," he rasped.

Alicia cried harder, yet managed a small smile. His stubbornness was legendary; his rare vulnerability only deepened her sorrow. "No need to apologize," she whispered. "I'm the one who stands to lose." Gently, she released his hand. "Let's just leave it here."