Chapter 353:

Alicia didn't want to linger in the cold wind, nor endure the onlookers' amusement. Bowing her head, she walked directly to the car. Caden promptly opened the door for her, but Alicia bypassed his gesture, entering on her own. Even without their current disagreement, he would have opened the door. He saw no need for her fussiness over such trivialities.

Alicia started the car. Just as he was about to get in, she placed her bag in the passenger seat, effectively blocking him. He considered asking why she was being so pointed, but given their strained relationship, he merely said, "Alright, I understand. Out of sight, out of mind, right?"

He settled into the back seat, only to have Alicia abruptly drive off. His head struck the headliner with a dull thud. He steadied himself, gazing gloomily at Alicia. After a brief pause, he muttered, "Nice driving."

Alicia caught his reflection in the rearview mirror. He straightened his clothes, affecting an air of unconcern. She clenched her teeth; she should have floored the gas pedal! She entered a destination into the GPS and followed the directions. Caden glanced at the location. He didn't recognize it, but it didn't concern him; his attention was fixed on Alicia.

"Grandma said the actress playing the ghost tonight wasn't your doing," Caden remarked.

Alicia remained impassive, offering no reply. Silence filled the car. Caden massaged his forehead. He genuinely regretted their conflicts and longed to reconcile, but their habitual arguing made a sincere conversation seem daunting. He fell silent for a long time, even briefly considering kneeling upon exiting the car. The thought was so absurd it almost made him cringe. He berated himself for such a humiliating notion.

Finally, the car stopped. "Get out," Alicia said. "This is the place."

Caden looked around. They were at a high-end private club.