Chapter 452:

Caden's mind was clearly still preoccupied with the previous night. Realizing it was futile to seek honest feedback from him, she exited the car. Caden was puzzled by his own recent vulgarity. At twenty, immersed in the world of high finance, he'd encountered the most profitable—and often controversial—industries, many involving sex. Despite confronting his own impulses and witnessing countless explicit images, he hadn't fully understood these industries' profitability. He questioned the inherent impulsiveness of male-female attraction. Now, however, he understood. It wasn't a lack of interest in women, but rather a lack of the right woman. Since encountering Alicia's allure, she felt like a missing piece.

Blake, conversely, was acutely aware of his limitations. After being intimidated by Caden a few times, he'd learned to suppress his feelings. Most men, he reasoned, were rational; if unable to win a woman's heart, they focused on self-improvement. Investing in the gallery was shrewd; it allowed him to grow his business without sacrificing his creative work. Alicia trusted him, and their partnership thrived.

One day, Blake entered Alicia's office. "Alicia, an important guest wishes to see you," he announced. She'd been meeting with significant clients lately, but today's visitor, Corey, was unexpected. He wasn't there for a major deal; he simply wanted to purchase a painting. After browsing, however, nothing caught his eye. Finally, he approached Alicia. "Ms. Bennett, would you paint something for me?"

Although Alicia was an artist, she didn't sell her personal work. Initially hesitant to break this rule, Corey's considerable influence—even surpassing Caden's—made refusal seem unwise. "Of course," she replied warmly. "But my paintings are purely decorative; they lack significant collectible value."

Corey chuckled at her modesty. "Ms. Bennett, you're so humble. Your mother is a renowned artist, after all."

Alicia smiled politely. "I'm not as talented as she is."

After further conversation, Corey expressed his desire for a sunflower painting, capturing vitality and hope. Alicia nodded. "I'll have it ready within a month, Mr. Hampton."

Pleased, Corey purchased several vibrant oil paintings, paying in full. Then, almost casually, he asked, "I saw you at an event recently. I heard you've invested in tech projects. Any chance of collaborating with Mr. Ward?"

Alicia hesitated.