Chapter 47

Caden jogged on the treadmill, his damp hair clinging to his forehead, sweat enhancing his already self-assured and attractive appearance. Concentrated on his run, he didn't notice them.

Alice quickly turned her head, lowering it as she said, "Let's eat. Stop staring."

Monica, still admiring him, finally asked, "Alicia, you and Caden haven't seen each other in years. There can't be any hard feelings left, right?"

Alicia recalled recent encounters. "There are still a few. He still hates me."

Monica sighed. "Maybe we should think about finding another lawyer."

"Because?"

Monica, wanting to avoid making Alicia uncomfortable, brushed it off. "It doesn't matter. I've spoken to my father, and we won't be able to hire Mr. Benson."

Alice, anticipating this, agreed. "No problem. We'll think of something." She calmly returned to her food.

Monica's eyes drifted back to the gym across the street. "Honestly, Caden's body is something else."

Alicia didn't respond, instead turning her gaze to Caden. His training clothes hugged his broad shoulders and well-defined muscles, showcasing his strength and effortless confidence. His slim waist and firm muscles completed his athletic physique. Her gaze lingered on his almost flawless form.

As Alice continued to admire him, Caden seemed to catch her eye, holding her gaze for a moment. Alice's heart skipped a beat; she quickly looked away, clearing her throat to appear nonchalant. "It's okay, I guess."

Monica leaned in, whispering, "You know how guys like him always look so proper? All buttoned up in the news. I bet someone like him is wild out of the spotlight. What do you think?"

Alice paused. Gentle? No. His movements were unremarkable, yet his strength was undeniably… overwhelming.

Monica smiled mischievously. "I've heard that a man with a strong nose is usually well-endowed. What do you think? How tall do you think he is?"

Alice was speechless. Would this conversation ever end?

He propped his chin on his hand, remaining silent. Monica muttered, "Judging by his build, I'd say he's that big," making an exaggerated gesture with her hand.

Alice blinked, completely shocked. "It's ridiculous. It's not that big."

Monica laughed, realizing her exaggeration. Then, she caught something interesting in Alice's statement. Squinting, she asked, "Wait, how do you know it's not that big?"

Alice froze. I had measured it.

"Just a guess," he replied, blushing slightly. "You've gone too far."

Fortunately, he kept Monica from the truth. After all, who would suspect they had slept together?

Alice took another bite of her food, but it no longer tasted the same. A strange chill ran down her spine despite the steaming food. She felt she was being watched. Turning, she saw a familiar figure by the door of a private room: Joshua.

Recognition was immediate. He hadn't changed much physically, but something was different; his eyes held a strange mix of resentment and nostalgia—a contradiction she'd never seen before. Memories flooded back, yet the years had eroded any lingering feelings. Her expression calm and distant, she returned to her meal.

Joshua had gone to get something. Passing them, he noticed Monica first, pausing before his gaze landed on Alicia. She was unchanged, yet his gaze was colder, filled with disdain. He offered a subtle smile before turning and heading to his room without a word.

In her room, Lilliana sat comfortably, indulging in pregnancy cravings. Joshua had just returned with his favorite drink after a large meal.

Lilliana immediately sensed a change in Joshua's demeanor. "Are you okay?" she asked. "Did you run into anyone you recognize?"

Joshua looked down. "No."

Since an unspecified incident, Lilliana had become more vigilant and distrustful, his actions unpredictable. He was exhausted by her suspicions and wanted to keep her away from Alicia. However, Lilliana's instincts kept her on edge.

"Have you seen Alice around here?" she asked bluntly.

Joshua frowned. "Stop making things complicated."

Convinced he was hiding something, Lilliana pressed, "Answer me. Why are you so evasive? After everything, are you still thinking about her?"

Joshua frowned again, looking at her flat stomach. "Lilliana, you're still in the first trimester. Stressing yourself out will only make things worse."

His distant tone made Lilliana uneasy. She realized she'd been too demanding, and his patience was wearing thin. His parents had warned him about his current vulnerability and the need for patience. Everyone has a limit. To avoid a conflict, she softened, leaning into his embrace. "Okay, I won't ask any more."

Joshua hugged her tightly. A loud commotion erupted outside. Joshua's instincts told him Alicia was involved, and he went to investigate. As expected, a group of drunk men were harassing Alicia and Monica.