Chapter 536

Alicia blinked in surprise, instinctively stepping back. “Thanks, Blake, but I’m okay. It’s just a little rain.”

Blake understood Alicia’s aversion to such gestures, so he stowed his jacket and opened the car door. “Come on, get in. I’ll drive you home.”

Alicia hesitated, glancing at her soaked clothes, then climbed into the car. Once inside, Blake offered her his jacket. “Here, dry off a bit. Don’t want you catching a cold.”

Instead of drying herself, Alicia draped it over her shoulders. Brushing the rain from her face, she said softly, “Sorry you had to witness that.”

Blake sighed. “The Ward family’s always been like this—status-driven, highly educated, and obsessed with appearances. I’ve noticed Caden treats you well, though. It’s rare; many men from his world don’t take relationships seriously. But Caden… he’s different.”

Alicia’s expression softened. “Caden’s achievements are his own. They probably don’t have much to do with his uncle and his outdated mindset.”

Blake nodded thoughtfully. “True, but the Ward family owes much of its success to Benedict. Caden built Blizzard Group, but his uncle’s initial support gave him an advantage. Without it, his rise might not have been so rapid.”

Alicia paused, realizing Blake had a point. Caden was only twenty-five, after all. Talent aside, some backing likely made all the difference. Taking a steadying breath, she said calmly, “I get it. He’s just looking out for Caden in his own way. I may have overstepped today. I’ll apologize when the time is right.”

Blake shook his head. “Don’t blame yourself. Caden’s a grown man; he can decide what’s best for himself. Elders shouldn’t interfere.”

Noticing Alicia’s silence and distant look, Blake felt a pang of concern. “Did he say something hurtful? Or… try to harm you?”

Alicia shook her head. “No, nothing like that.”

Seeing her pale from the chill, Blake switched on the heater. “Let me take you home. Getting soaked isn’t good for you. Take a warm bath and unwind once you’re back.”

Realizing she hadn’t fastened her seatbelt, he leaned over to buckle it for her. Alicia flinched, intending to stop him, but he’d already done it. She looked away, composing herself.

“Mr. Langstaff, I appreciate the thought, but there should be boundaries. Small gestures like this aren’t necessary.”

Blake chuckled, concealing a hint of disappointment. “It was just a friendly gesture, Alicia. Don’t overthink it.”

Alicia glanced out the window. “Let’s go, Mr. Langstaff.”

Blake hesitated, his gaze lingering. For the first time, he saw her differently—drenched, vulnerable, yet strikingly graceful. The sight stirred long-suppressed feelings. Unable to resist the moment, he leaned in slightly. “Alicia, your hair’s dripping. Want to dry it?”

Alicia was taken aback, caught by the gentleness in his eyes. She understood the implication, and it made her uneasy. “Mr. Langstaff… I think I’d better go home on my own,” she murmured, her tone distant.

Blake’s face fell, surprised. Panic flashed across his face as he saw her reaching for the door handle. He instinctively took her hand. “Alicia, I didn’t mean it that way. I’m sorry if I overstepped.”