Chapter 531:

As the ice cream in Alicia's hand melted, Caden snatched it away, tossing it aside. "My parents are gone," he stated firmly, "so when it comes to marriage, I decide." He added, "My uncle's role is to offer blessings, not opinions."

Alicia's breath caught. Speechless, she met his dark, intense gaze. A thousand unspoken words crowded her mind, yet none escaped her lips. A faint smile played on Caden's lips, as if he were about to propose. His tender expression was overwhelming, drawing her in.

"Alicia," he murmured.

Alicia felt breathless, dazed. Was he really about to propose? Why now, so suddenly? How should she respond? Say yes, or smack him for such an unromantic moment? What a dreadful proposal! Yet, even without flowers or a ring, she still wanted to say yes.

Caden's gaze fell to her nervously parted lips. He almost laughed. He longed to kiss her.

"Alicia," he drawled, his eyes twinkling, "you have a little ice cream mustache."

Alicia nearly choked. The swelling anticipation deflated instantly. Overwhelmed by disappointment, she punched his chest. "You're impossible!"

Her light punch only amused him; he burst into laughter, pulling her into his arms. "Why don't you like the truth? I never said you were ugly," he teased, kissing the cream from the corner of her mouth.

"What on earth are you doing out in the open? Someone might see us!" she exclaimed, flustered by his beaming face. "What's so funny? Your sense of humor is appalling!"

Caden's expression sobered. "Alicia, I'll give you anything you want." But marriage, he added, wasn't the right time.

Alicia's eyes brightened with curiosity. "Like what?"

"Like my secret stash."

Alicia raised an eyebrow. "What secret stash?" Without another word, Caden scooped her up and headed for the car. "Come with me. I'll tell you at home. In bed."

Understanding his implication, Alicia playfully kicked and punched him. "Caden, you are absolutely impossible!"

Caden had never taken marriage seriously. To him, it was multifaceted—a transaction, a bargaining chip, or a cherished gift. If Alicia wanted the gift, he'd gladly give it.

Once Ciara was able to get out of bed, Caden seized the opportunity to meet with the country's most esteemed ring designer, a renowned artist who had previously worked with the Moss family.