Alicia raised an eyebrow. “No, it was just a hobby I looked into.”

“You are better than Yolanda, at least,” Benedict said.

Alicia blinked, surprised. “Sir, if you have something to say, just say it. There’s no need to beat around the bush.”

Benedict was momentarily speechless. He wanted to apologize, but his pride prevented him. Instead, he fumbled for a less direct approach. Alicia wasn’t about to let him off easily. She raised a tray. “Do you want some?”

Benedict cleared his throat, reaching tentatively. “You’ve worked hard. I’ll give you some face.” But just as his fingers brushed the tray, Alicia pulled it back.

Benedict stared, confused. “There’s more in the kitchen. Help yourself. This is for Ciara,” Alicia explained, a sly smile playing on her lips as she turned away.

After Ciara finished two pieces, Aylin announced, “Ms. Bennett, Mr. Caden Ward is back and wishes to speak with you outside.”

Without asking why, Alicia let Ciara have more and rest before stepping out. Ciara watched her leave, a smile spreading across her face. The most beautiful feeling in the world is when love reaches its peak. It was mutual and sincere. Why fret about the future?

Meanwhile, after Caden stepped from the car, he opened the trunk and untied Blake. Finally free, Blake winced as stiffness and pain shot through his joints. Caden unscrewed a water bottle. “Do you want some more, my dear nephew?”

Blake weakly retorted, “Get lost.”

“It’s already open,” Caden said with a sly grin, tilting the bottle and splashing water on Blake’s pants. “Oops. My hand slipped.”

Blake was taken aback. “What’s wrong with you?” The damp stain on his gray pants was impossible to ignore. He wanted to brush it off, but lacked the strength.

Alicia’s voice came from behind. “What are you doing, Caden?”