Chapter 36

Alice was surprised to see Caden. She’d only intended to buy some medicine, and encountering him so soon felt like incredibly bad luck. Guilt washed over her after the previous night's events; she instinctively took a step back. Then, she questioned her reaction. It seemed ridiculous to be afraid after sleeping with him.

Caden entered silently, Hank conveniently excusing himself to use the restroom, leaving the pair alone. As the elevator doors closed, Alice felt a sudden tension in the air. Caden noticed the birth control pills in her hand. Alice quickly hid them, but he’d already seen.

Calmly, Caden said, “You don't need those.”

Alice, surprised, asked, “Why? Do you have azoospermia?”

Caden didn't correct her misconception. “I didn't finish last night.”

Alice's eyes widened. “But it was intense.”

Caden glanced at her. “I used different methods.”

Alice felt confused. Her intimate experiences were limited to two encounters with Caden, both shrouded in uncertainty. Hesitantly, she asked, “What methods?”

The question brought the previous night vividly back to Caden. His expression darkened. “You really don't understand.”

Alice, embarrassed, tried to play it off. “Oh, I was just kidding. I get it. Thanks.” Though she spoke with conviction, her face betrayed her nervousness.

Caden smiled, his bad mood lightening. He joked, “Oh yeah? Then tell me, where did I… use them?”

Alice's composure faltered. “Is this really appropriate?”

Caden chuckled. “We've slept together twice. What's inappropriate about it?”

Alice felt trapped, wishing she'd joined Hank. The elevator fell silent.

Caden added, “If you're curious, check the security footage at home.”

Alice was startled. “How do you know I have surveillance?”

Caden remained impassive. “I'm aware of the cameras, and I enjoyed watching your enthusiastic efforts last night, Miss Bennett.”

Heat returned to Alice's cheeks. He stared at a crack in the wall, wishing he could disappear. She couldn't, so she calmly explained, “I was drunk. It was unintentional.”

A slight smile touched Caden's lips. “It really caught me off guard.”

Shame washed over Alice. The elevator doors opened. Caden exited, ending the conversation. Alice followed.

“Caden, we're adults. Let's pretend last night never happened,” she suggested.

Caden remained indifferent. “What else is there?”

Alice sighed in relief, but then he added, “Three times is the limit. If it happens again, I won’t be so accommodating.”

Alice looked up, sensing the intensity in his gaze despite the softening sunlight. “What do you mean?”

Caden responded cryptically, “Looks like you’re already anticipating our third time.”

Alice felt a flicker of surprise. She looked away. “Don't get ahead of yourself. I’m leaving.”

They parted ways. Later, Hank looked regretful as Caden retrieved his laptop.

“Mr. Ward, I thought you were going to take Ms. Bennett home.”

Caden smirked. “If you love driving people home so much, I’ll get you a job as a driver.”

Hank changed the subject. “But your illness? Will you keep taking your medication?”

Caden frowned. He only took it to avoid worrying Ciara. “I will,” he said in a deep voice.

Hank pressed, “Medication hasn't been effective and can be harmful. You’ve been single. Why not explore other options?”

Caden replied nonchalantly, “Romantic relationships don’t mean much to me.” He was content as long as Alice stayed out of his life.

Hank felt a surge of emotion. “You can't stay single forever.”

Caden's expression hardened. He remembered his words to Alice: three times was the limit. If Alice crossed that line, he wouldn't be able to control himself.