Chapter 543:

Alicia broke their gaze and went to the kitchen to make breakfast. Caden was hopelessly inept in the kitchen; even his best efforts would produce something barely edible. Usually, Alicia only had coffee, but today she decided on a proper breakfast, hoping to make Caden envious. She prepared an elaborate sandwich, cut it in half, ate one portion, and left the other on the table. As Caden went to the refrigerator for milk, Alicia took a satisfying bite. The warm egg, ham, and special seasonings filled the kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

Caden pursed his lips, grabbed a cold bottle of milk, and drank it straight, regardless of the temperature. Alicia watched him with concern; it would surely upset his stomach. Frustrated and worried, she returned to her sandwich, chewing furiously, then left to finish packing.

Caden was ready to leave when she returned, but the sandwich was gone. Alicia’s voice was cold. "Where's my breakfast?"

Caden didn't look any friendlier, but he didn't flinch. "I thought it was mine."

"It wasn't yours. That was for Cade," she snapped. Caden was speechless. Without further comment, he left without eating.

Alicia shook her head, put out food and milk for Cade, then took the sandwich with her as she left. In the underground garage, she spotted Caden getting into his car. Clearing her throat, she approached and handed him the sandwich. "Cade didn't want it, so you can have it."

Caden's gaze was steely. "Beg me."

"What?" Alicia froze, hesitated, then shrugged. "Fine, I'll just give it to Mr. Langstaff."

Caden's expression hardened. Just as Alicia reached for her car door, Caden pinned her against the vehicle and swiftly took the sandwich from her bag. In three bites, he finished it in front of her. Alicia stood in stunned silence. Caden lowered his gaze, his expression impassive. "As if he deserves my leftovers. Maybe if he reincarnates as a dog, I'll toss him a scrap or two."

Speechless, Alicia let him go, shaking her head at his audacity. It was no wonder he didn't have many friends.

After they parted ways, Alicia bought a new phone. At the office, she immediately convened a meeting about Blake's situation. No one dared to challenge her decision. Alicia's voice was firm. "That's final. Let's not bring this up again."

A senior board member spoke as she prepared to leave. "Ms. Bennett, it's not that we're ignoring your direction, but Mr. Ward gave us strict orders. We're in a tough position."