Chapter 376:

"It implies nothing," Caden responded calmly. "I just threw it away. That's all."

Alicia scoffed. "It reflects your insecurity. Only a man who feels threatened would act so possessively."

Caden remained cool. "You could try harder. That comment hardly scratches the surface."

Alicia was speechless. She had always recognized Caden's talents, but his brazenness surprised her. Her insults were ineffective; harsher words might even amuse him. With nothing more to add, she turned to leave. After a few steps, a thought struck her.

Turning back, she asked, "Caden, do you remember how we first got together?"

"Of course," Caden replied instantly. "A memorable night at the private cinema. We had sex five times."

Alicia suppressed the urge to slap him. "Technically, it started with a jacket."

Caden's eyelid twitched.

"I borrowed your jacket three times," Alicia continued, "each time owing you a favor. You're well aware of this tactic, aren't you?"

Caden was speechless. Alicia's expression was blank.

"If things turn out well with Mr. Langstaff," she said, "I'll be sure to thank you for your inadvertent assistance today."

Caden remained speechless. Alicia returned to the hall, apologizing to Blake for misplacing his jacket. She handed him her assistant's business card. "Give her your address, and after I buy a new jacket, she'll deliver it to you."

Blake chuckled, appreciating her clear boundaries. Understanding she didn't want to owe him, he accepted. "Alright."

Alicia felt relieved by his agreeable nature. He was so polite and gentlemanly; compared to Caden, he seemed remarkably composed.

After the birthday party, as Blake left, he saw Caden leaning against a pillar, observing him with an unreadable expression.

Blake paused. "Mr. Ward."

Under the lights, Caden's demeanor was enigmatic. "Don't you think 'Mr. Ward' is a bit formal, my distant nephew?" Caden remarked.

Blake felt tension rise. He was surprised by Caden's quick recognition. They hadn't interacted much as children, their exchanges limited to silent glances during family gatherings. Their relationship had never been close; in fact, Blake was two years older, yet Caden technically held the title of uncle, albeit a distant one. Young men often placed importance on such titles, but as children, neither had acknowledged the connection. Now, years later, they were drawn together by a woman.

Caden smiled. "So, what's your impression? Isn't my future wife stunning?"

Blake, usually friendly, found it difficult to maintain a smile. "You're overthinking it. My admiration for Ms. Bennett is based solely on her skills and abilities."