Chapter 394:

Caden nodded firmly. "Yes, do whatever it takes to ensure she comes."

Ray shook his head, lacking the confidence to ask her.

Caden's expression hardened. "If you can't manage it, I'll have no choice but to turn you over to the police."

Ray's eyes widened in disbelief.

After Alicia calmed down, she called Blake, asking if he'd resolved his issue. His voice was utterly drained. "I'm still searching for him."

Alicia offered, "Is there anything I can help with?" Initially, Blake hesitated, but his anxiety overcame him. Believing Alicia had connections in Warrington, he asked for her help and arranged to meet her at a local restaurant. However, he was late.

While waiting, Alicia received a call from Ray at Joy Mansion. His voice was nervous as he invited her to dinner. Intrigued, Alicia asked, "Why are you calling me?"

Ray's voice trembled. "If you don't come, he'll kill me."

Alicia was startled. "Who are you talking about?"

Ray quickly glanced at Caden, who stood impassively beside him. "A very tall monster," he whispered.

For a moment, Alicia was speechless, then realized he meant Caden. Though reluctant to put Ray in a difficult position, she had prior commitments. "I'm sorry, but I have other plans. I'll visit another day."

Just after she hung up, Blake arrived, utterly exhausted. Alicia asked, "Did something happen?"

Blake, looking disheveled, ran a hand through his hair. "It's all my fault. He relies on me heavily, and I shouldn't have left him alone at school. I planned to return in a few days, but I had no idea he would act so boldly."

As Alicia pieced together the information, a realization struck her. "Do you have a photo of your brother?"

Blake, initially slow to understand, realized he needed to share more. He produced a photograph of himself and his brother. Alicia smiled instantly.

Blake was bewildered. "Ms. Bennett, might I ask what causes that smile?"

Alicia held the photograph, her eyes gleaming. "It's amazing how everything has aligned, Mr. Langstaff."