Chapter 539:

Alicia’s mouth ached, her jaw throbbing. Her chest tightened painfully, her resistance weakening as she went limp in Caden’s grip. His kiss deepened, his intensity unwavering. Pinned by his strength and the heat of his breath, she felt herself slide back, her own breathing shallow and strained. Her lashes fluttered, and the tears she’d fought back finally escaped, warm and heavy, landing on Caden’s hand. He froze, pulling back slightly to see the disappointment and hurt in her eyes. His breath hitched as understanding dawned.

Brushing away her tears, he murmured, his voice thick with frustration, “Alicia, can’t you just listen to me?”

Alicia pressed her lips together, refusing to meet his gaze or answer. Seeing her vulnerability, Caden’s gaze softened. He held her close, attempting to comfort her, though she remained stiff and unresponsive. Realizing she’d been caught in the rain, he gently lifted her and carried her inside, wanting to prevent her from catching a cold. She lay motionless in his arms, neither resisting nor cooperating.

Caden prepared a warm bath, hoping it would soothe her. After showering, Alicia went to the kitchen to make soup. Caden, now changed, leaned against the doorframe, silently watching her determined movements.

Breaking the silence, he said, “I know you don’t have feelings for Blake, but he’s clever and bold—always looking for an advantage.”

Alicia’s expression darkened. She gripped the spoon tightly, the metal clinking against the pot as she slammed it down. “And who says I’m not interested in him?”

Caden’s smile vanished. “Alicia, don’t play games with me.”

“Who’s playing games? What’s wrong with Mr. Langstaff?” Her voice rose, challenging him.

In a swift movement, Caden stepped forward, pinning her against the table, his arm firmly around her waist, his gaze unwavering. “What’s so special about him? Do you actually like him?”

Swallowed by his intense stare, Alicia held her ground. “Why should I tell you? He’s more considerate than you.”

Caden pressed on, his voice low. “Just answer me. Do you like him?”

Alicia’s eyes reddened, her voice trembling. “Caden, just… get away from me!”

A wave of bitterness washed over him. He knew Blake had instigated this—it wasn’t Alicia’s fault. And even if it was, he couldn’t bring himself to blame her. Taking a deep breath, he softened his tone. “I rushed home after work, only to find you in his jacket, sitting together in the car. How do you think that made me feel?”

Alicia turned her face away. He held her closer. “Imagine if I came home with a woman’s belongings in my pocket. How would you feel?”

Alicia’s patience snapped. “Oh, really? What could you possibly fit in your pocket—some underwear?”

Caught off guard, Caden suppressed a smile. “You see? Nothing even happened, and you’re already jealous. Why can’t you understand how it felt for me?”