Chapter 456
Once their figures disappeared, a swift figure slipped into the private room, deftly clearing Alicia's tableware and glasses.
Corey leaned back in the car, massaging his temples, his eyes squeezed shut. His secretary, Kyler, slid into the passenger seat, handing Corey a small bag.
“Mr. Hampton, I’ve collected Alicia’s DNA samples,” Kyler said.
Corey opened his eyes, gently rubbing them. A storm of emotions roiled within him. Just then, a car pulled up. Caden leaned against the window, a smirk playing on his lips.
“Mr. Hampton, in no hurry to leave?”
Corey smiled. “No rush. Just clearing my head.” He held up the sample bag, lit a cigarette, and with a casual flick of his wrist, waved the blank parchment under Caden’s nose. He was terrified Caden would discover the truth, yet equally afraid he wouldn't. The thrill of the moment made him chuckle. He offered Caden a cigarette, his grin widening. “Mr. Ward, care to join me?”
His gaze drifted past Caden to Alicia. Caden shook his head. “I don’t smoke.”
Corey nodded and watched Caden drive away, a lingering smile playing on his lips. Kyler held his breath. “You’re quite bold, Mr. Hampton.” Caden had keen eyes; even if he couldn’t identify the sample, Corey’s provocation was suspicious.
Corey’s smile faded. His voice slowed deliberately. “No matter how sharp he is, he can’t predict the unknown. If he knew everything, he would rule the world.”
“Mr. Hampton, where will the paternity test be conducted?” Kyler asked.
Corey glanced at the file, his expression unreadable. “Devarlton. Keep it discreet.” He’d already found an answer. Alicia’s alcohol allergy mirrored that person's. Too many coincidences. Confirmation was necessary. He had to be certain about Alicia’s identity.
Meanwhile, Alicia gazed out at the receding streetlights. Suddenly, she spoke, her voice steady. “Corey has been investigating me.”
Caden wasn’t surprised. During dinner, Corey had repeatedly glanced at Alicia, his gaze lacking warmth or affection; he wasn’t one to ogle women, so his repeated glances were suspicious. Buying the painting had been a pretext, serving another purpose.