Chapter 330:

How had she done it? How had she managed it so perfectly? Without delay, he dialed Alicia's number. As expected, she didn't answer. His thoughts turned to Gerry. Gerry had inadvertently revealed earlier that Alicia had been to Averibon. Caden pressed Gerry for details, and Gerry, unable to conceal it any longer, admitted, "Alicia went to Averibon to uncover your past with your mother. She planned it as a surprise for you, and we were sworn to secrecy."

Caden's mind raced. That explained her trip. Yolanda was unaware of the details of his relationship with his mother, so she couldn't help Lina. Alicia, however, had secretly investigated, visiting his childhood haunts, speaking with neighbors and relatives, learning of his mother's deep affection for him. She'd intended to surprise him. It explained her strong reaction when she saw him with Yolanda.

Even more shocking was that she'd had an accident that same day, and without hesitation, he'd chosen Yolanda over her, leaving her vulnerable. Later, tearfully, she'd proposed, "Will you marry me? Say yes, even if it's a lie." He'd cruelly refused. Her despairing smile, tears in her eyes, haunted him, a persistent thorn in his side.

He felt paralyzed, bowed his head, lost in thought. Lina approached and touched him, sensing his distress. Its eyes dimmed, comfort mode activated. Like his mother had once done, Lina began singing a lullaby to soothe him. Overcome with sadness, Caden reached to turn it off. Just as his fingers touched the switch, Lina's voice faltered, and another voice, soft and clear, took over. She hummed gently:

“The dark sky hangs low, with bright stars shining. Fireflies dance in the night. Whom do you long for?”

Caden's breath hitched; his heartache intensified. His mother's lullaby, now sung by Alicia, revealed a hidden depth to her surprise. He was overwhelmed, realizing he'd utterly failed her. Memories flooded his mind, unfolding like a film. He finally understood the depth and freedom of Alicia's love. When she'd loved Joshua, seeking financial security and support, she'd given everything without reservation, even sacrificing her own promising future to marry him secretly.