Chapter 358:

Gerry dialed Alicia's number, but it went straight to voicemail; her phone was off. He smirked, a smug satisfaction evident in his tone. "So, you're the genius who managed to get on Alicia's bad side," he taunted.

Caden's jaw tightened, his fists clenching. Gerry pressed his advantage. "Weren't you the one bragging that women are just dramatic and everything would blow over in a couple of days? So, how long has it been now? She blocked you, didn't she?"

Caden's expression remained impassive. "Every couple argues. It's normal," he stated firmly.

Gerry chuckled, unconvinced. "Yeah, but most couples don't stay apart this long. Be honest—did you two break up?"

Caden's gaze sharpened, his voice dropping to a dangerous low. "I'd tear your head off before I'd ever let her go."

A chill ran down Gerry's spine, despite knowing it was likely an empty threat. "Alright, alright," he said, raising his hands in mock surrender. Then, more seriously, he asked, "Need my help? Maybe I can speed up your reconciliation."

Caden's eyes narrowed with disdain. "And what's a virgin with zero dating experience going to do to help me?"

Gerry felt the sting but held his ground. He retorted sarcastically, "If losing one's virginity is such an accomplishment, maybe you should print out a certificate saying 'I'm not a virgin!' and wear it around your neck." Annoyed, he struck at Caden's weakness: "I'll just go find Alicia and ask her to cook for me."

Caden raised an eyebrow, his voice calm. "Talk's cheap."

Gerry, clearly irritated, snapped, "Just you wait!" He spun on his heel and stormed off, leaving Caden behind.

"Give it your best shot," Caden called after him smugly. "If you succeed, I'll owe you one."

As Gerry descended the stairs, a sudden realization hit him: if he did win Alicia back, wouldn't Caden be the ultimate beneficiary? Was he unwittingly doing Caden a massive favor?

Meanwhile, Caden wasn't waiting around. He was already making his move. On the way to Alicia's gallery, he stopped to buy a carefully selected bouquet of flowers, placing them gently in the back seat.

He arrived at the gallery, and the receptionist waved him in—he was a familiar face. Just as the elevator doors opened, Alicia's assistant stepped out, surprised to see him.

"Mr. Ward," she said, raising an eyebrow. "What brings you here today?"

Caden remained calm. "Is Ms. Bennett busy?"

"Ms. Bennett left early this morning," the assistant replied hesitantly. "She was invited to play the piano at a banquet in Bechorion for an important client."

Caden's eyes darkened, a storm brewing within. "And when will she be back?" ...