Chapter 489:

“What more do I need to do for you to like me? What should I do…?” Her voice trailed off, pleading. Without warning, she lunged at Caden.

Caden remained motionless as Dorian swiftly intervened, grasping Yolanda and preventing her further humiliation. His heart ached for his daughter, and he was furious with Caden's cruelty. Yolanda collapsed into her father's embrace, sobbing.

“Dad, I truly love Caden. I’ve loved him since childhood. I love him so much. Please help me…”

Despite his pride, Dorian couldn't ignore his daughter's distress. Unable to rebuke her, he simply held her closer. After a moment, Dorian’s cold gaze fell upon Caden.

“I’ve indulged my daughter for most of her life; I am partly to blame for her behavior. But nobody is perfect. I will give Yolanda a few months to come to her senses. If she fails, I assure you I will do whatever it takes to make you hers.”

With that ominous promise, Dorian led the weeping Yolanda from the room. Caden smirked.

“If you can drive the Blizzard Group to the ground,” he called after Dorian, his voice laced with defiance.

Alicia turned sharply to look at him. Caden’s profile was familiar yet somehow different. An arrogant, almost savage edge accentuated his features, a recklessness reminiscent of a headstrong youth. Alicia felt her heart quicken, inexplicably drawn to him. She then turned her attention to Regina, who sat with furrowed brows and a grim set to her mouth. Though pity was evident, Alicia thought she detected a flicker of amusement. She couldn't determine whether Regina was laughing at herself or Yolanda, but it was clear Regina had sacrificed much for her daughter, making her disappointment all the more understandable.

Feeling sympathy for Regina, Alicia signaled the waiter and ordered additional dishes.

Regina emerged from her reverie. “The table is full of untouched food. Why would you order more?”

“They’ve been sitting for a while,” Alicia replied calmly. “They won’t taste as good now. Please enjoy these fresh dishes.”

“Why are you always trying to please everyone?” Caden interjected.

Alicia playfully elbowed him. Regina couldn't help but smile. This affection felt genuine, earned and nurtured.

When the new dishes arrived, Regina noticed they were all to her liking. “Are you familiar with my tastes, Ms. Bennett?” she asked, surprised.

“I suppose I got lucky. Devarlton’s cuisine tends to be sweet and mild, so I took a chance on some local specialties.”

Regina nodded, pleased. “You have a keen sense, Ms. Bennett.”

The earlier food had clearly catered to Caden's preferences, undoubtedly chosen by Yolanda. Despite his pride, Dorian couldn't resist indulging Yolanda's whims. Unfortunately, his indulgence had fostered an entitled attitude, causing her to overstep boundaries. His affection would ultimately become Yolanda’s greatest weapon.

Alicia remained unsettled by Dorian’s threat, her unease lingering even as Caden kissed her passionately.