Chapter 575:

Silence hung heavy on the line.

“Isn’t Blake your nephew?” Corey asked.

“Alicia was your younger brother’s wife,” Caden replied. “Now, your relative has developed a crush on her. Is there some Ward family gene that prevents you all from seeing the obvious?”

Caden chuckled lightly. “Many people find Alicia appealing. Blake is just one of them. I even approve of you liking her, but know you’ll end up alone.”

Corey scoffed. “Feelings are fickle, Caden. Are you so sure Alicia will remain devoted to you forever?”

“Yes, I am.”

Corey had never encountered such conceit. He returned to the matter at hand. “I can tell Alicia cares about this shareholder. He’s an obstacle to your future with her, but I assume you don’t mind, right?”

Caden snorted.

Corey continued, “The chip needs repairing, and I have no other options. If Alicia helps me, I’ll return Blake unharmed. I hope you won’t interfere, Caden.”

Caden replied, “Corey, you didn’t need to call.”

Corey’s gaze narrowed, struggling to decipher Caden’s intentions. “What do you mean?”

Caden said, “Blake is in your territory now. Do what you will. It’s none of my concern. Even if he dies, it doesn’t matter.”

Corey was speechless. Caden’s ruthless reaction shocked him; he’d grossly underestimated Caden’s cold-heartedness. He had to admit Caden was too petty to show mercy, even to a relative.

Shortly after ending the call, Caden visited Alicia.

“Are you willing to help Corey?”

Alicia hesitated, but Blake’s capture made it clear Corey wasn’t to be trifled with. To avoid escalation, she needed to proceed cautiously.

“What’s your take on this?” she asked, seeking Caden’s perspective.

Caden shrugged, his indifference evident. “It’s your decision.”

Alicia pressed, “Are you feeling threatened?” . . .