Chapter 555:

Sensing the pause, Alicia sighed. “I’m not going back to Joy Mansion, Hank. If Caden wants to go, he can go himself.”

Caden, who had been listening, subtly signaled Hank to end the call. Hank looked at Caden thoughtfully. “Mr. Ward, perhaps you should invite Ms. Bennett yourself. These things matter to women.”

Caden’s jaw tightened. After a moment, he grabbed his car keys and stood. Hank followed, tentatively adding, “Mr. Ward?”

“I’ll take care of it,” Caden said, impatience coloring his tone. Hank nodded in understanding and stepped back.

Caden and Alicia’s relationship was no longer a secret. A single gift sufficed for visiting Ciara at Joy Mansion, yet Caden chose something extravagant. Approaching Alicia, he prepared to present it, but she, too, held a gift. Caden’s brows furrowed. “What’s this?” he asked, his curiosity evident.

Alicia’s expression remained composed. “It’s an herbal tonic, good for your grandmother’s health. Please take it back for me. Remember, it’s potent; tell Aylin to prepare it no more than once a month.”

Caden’s eyes flicked to the label. It was the exact brand he’d chosen. Despite their disagreements, they still seemed to think alike, but it didn’t feel romantic. Alicia had no intention of returning with him.

Caden longed to end their cold war. Their initial argument had been petty, yet now she wouldn’t even let him into her bedroom. The sting was deeper than he cared to admit.

“Alicia, get in the car. We need to talk,” he said, attempting a gentle tone, though his words felt strained.

Alicia glanced at him. Her evening was already planned. “If you have something to say, say it here. No need to get in the car.”

Caden’s hope for a smooth conversation dwindled. “Talking to me is a waste of time?”

She met his gaze directly. “I’m busy, Caden. If you have something to say, make it quick.”

But Caden refused to yield. “Get in the car,” he repeated, his tone brooking no argument.

Alicia sighed, finding him unreasonable. Throughout their silent feud, he hadn’t even offered a simple greeting. Now, in his attempt at reconciliation, he still expected everything to bend to his will.

“Suit yourself,” she muttered, turning to leave.

Before she could take a step, Caden exited the car, lifted her into it, and placed her inside.

“Caden!” Alicia protested, struggling against him. Her hair fell from its neat style. “There are cameras at the entrance! How am I supposed to face my employees after this?”

Caden’s eyes narrowed. “Which employee are you worried about? Blake?”

Alicia’s lips pressed into a thin line.