Chapter 428

Alicia hadn't heard of him, but she noticed the subtle shift in Caden's expression. She knew Corey and Caden had been classmates—rivals and allies who'd gone their separate ways, each establishing their own domain. "Why are all the top players so good-looking?" she mused aloud.

At that moment, Corey approached, a warm smile on his face. "Mr. Ward," he greeted, extending his hand. His mature, chiseled features were strikingly handsome. "It's been a while."

Caden shook his hand, then casually slipped an arm around Alicia's waist. "My girlfriend, Alicia," he introduced. Corey nodded politely. Unlike Caden's relaxed demeanor, Corey exuded a steady composure, quickly steering the conversation toward work.

With a casual smile, Caden asked, "So, what brings you to an event like this, Mr. Hampton?"

Corey chuckled. "You're far more impressive than I am, yet here you are."

Caden smirked. "Just trying to keep a woman happy. Is that your reason too?"

Alicia nudged him lightly, a subtle reminder to choose his words carefully. Unaccustomed to such casual banter, Corey kept his response brief before excusing himself.

As Corey walked away, he murmured to his secretary, "Caden's become quite perceptive. He saw through my motives immediately."

The secretary raised an eyebrow. "Should we involve ourselves in his affairs?"

"No need," Corey replied dismissively. "I'll handle my business without meddling in his."

Corey's return had a personal purpose. He was investigating a specific girl's background. Twenty-five years ago, this girl had been born in Warrington's most prestigious private hospital. Only two mothers had given birth there that day, making the investigation relatively straightforward.

As they drove, Alicia seemed lost in thought. "Now that Corey's back, will it impact you?" she asked, glancing at Caden.

He replied nonchalantly, "Not in the slightest. And he's not here for business anyway." Warrington was too small a city for two major players to directly compete; both he and Corey knew this.

Alicia admired Caden's composure. He possessed an unshakable calm; even if swallowed by a whale, he'd likely nap in its belly before finding a way out.

"But if he's not here for business, what is he here for? Blind dates?" she teased.

Caden's eyebrow twitched, remembering her earlier praise of Corey's handsome and capable nature. His tone cooled. "Not sure. I have his number. Want to call and ask?"

Alicia blinked, surprised. "Why would I call someone I barely know?" But noticing his expression, she tilted her head. "Wait a second… are you jealous?"

Caden didn't reply, but the driver's soft chuckle filled the silence. He could tell Caden was jealous. Caden shot him a sidelong glance. "Something funny?"