Chapter 352

Alicia froze, her breath catching in her throat. Then, with a stubborn tilt of her chin, she turned away, quickening her pace. But Caden was persistent. He easily caught up, his presence commanding as he said in a low voice, "Alicia, let's talk."

Without responding, Alicia attempted to bypass him, stepping aside. Caden moved with her, blocking her path without touching her. His broad chest presented an immovable barrier. She inhaled deeply, tilting her head to meet his intense gaze. "What do you want? Just say it."

"It's freezing. Let me take you home," Caden said, his voice steady. He slid his coat off and gently draped it over her shoulders.

"Are we really that close?" Alicia's voice sharpened as she brushed his hand away, her tone as cold as the wind. Caden's eyes darkened, frustration simmering beneath his calm exterior. He'd just declared they weren't close—not even close enough to break up—and yet here he was, pleading with her. How the tables had turned.

"We're not close, I get that," Caden murmured, swallowing his pride. "But can you give me a chance? Let me apologize properly." His voice softened, almost vulnerable. "Is that too much to ask?"

Alicia held his gaze, her eyes hard, before scoffing. "An apology? From Mr. Ward?" Her mocking tone cut through the air. "I don't think so. It's late. Let's just go our separate ways."

She spun to leave, but Caden reached out, his fingers curling around her wrist, pulling her back. "Let go," Alicia hissed, yanking her arm, but his grip tightened. Anger flashed in her eyes. "Caden, I'm trying to be civil, but if you keep pushing, I swear I'll cuss you out."

Instead of backing off, her fiery outburst seemed to soothe him. "Go ahead," he said, surprisingly calm. "Say whatever you need to. I can handle it."

Her lips parted in shock. "I never thought I'd see the day you'd be this docile."

Caden was speechless. Her remark stung. Born into wealth, he was accustomed to women's affection; he'd never needed to pursue anyone. Except Alicia. Memories of their intimacy flashed in his mind, causing him to swallow hard. Reluctantly, he asked, "Then… could you give me a chance?" The words were strained, his embarrassment palpable.

Alicia caught his intense gaze. She seethed with anger but felt powerless. Who would have guessed Caden was like this? The colder she treated him, the more his passion seemed to grow. He appeared to recognize no limits.