Chapter 453:

She wasn't entirely familiar with the tensions between Corey and Caden, but his question felt like more than mere curiosity. "Just dabbling," she replied lightly.

Corey gave her a thoughtful look. "The year Mr. Ward returned, he launched a new product line that sold out immediately. Word is that success was partly your doing. If you can accomplish that with 'dabbling,' imagine what you'd achieve if you were fully committed. I'd have no room left."

Alicia managed a polite, slightly strained smile. "Mr. Hampton, you're flattering me. You're already leading the market here. I wouldn't be taking any of your share."

Corey simply smiled, saying nothing more. For over a month, he'd been observing industry shifts. He knew Caden intended to expand domestically. Every market was a fierce battleground, and Caden was known for his relentless business approach. Once established, he rarely left room for competitors, securing resources in a way that stifled any who tried to enter the field. Corey felt he had two choices: settle for the leftovers or dominate first.

As he prepared to leave, Corey turned back to her. "Ms. Bennett, I'm looking forward to seeing your work. Let's have dinner sometime."

Alicia smiled, nodding. "I'll make sure to host you properly."

After Corey left, she realized how tense she'd been. That evening, leaning comfortably against Caden, she asked, "Have you had any recent business conflicts with Corey?"

Caught off guard by her mention of another man, Caden's expression turned curious. "Why do you ask?"

"He commissioned a painting from me," Alicia replied, "and he asked about my investments. It almost felt like he was… probing for information about you."

Caden's gaze darkened slightly as he considered this. "I'll look into it."

Alicia thought back to her conversation with Corey. He'd been charming, but something in his manner felt elusive, making his true intentions hard to gauge. "So, what kind of person is Corey?" she asked innocently. "Would you say he's a good man?"

Caden shrugged. "As long as he doesn't try to undermine me, he's good enough."

Sensing she wouldn't get more from him, Alicia yawned, feeling tired. "Once the painting's ready, I plan to invite him to dinner. Would you like to join us?"

Caden paused his gentle touch on her back. "I don't have time for unnecessary dinners."

Alicia pouted slightly. "Suit yourself."

Later, Caden discovered his recent business moves had unintentionally unsettled Corey. His grand return had attracted several well-funded partners who'd severed ties with Corey to join his ventures. With his busy schedule, Caden hadn't noticed the impact on Corey.