Chapter 651:

"I'll take Mrs. Moss to the hospital," Alicia said calmly, avoiding Caden's gaze. "The police are at the store. They need your statement."

Caden considered clarifying the earlier situation but refrained, unwilling to distress Regina. He simply nodded. He’d intended to ask Alicia to call him if needed, but she’d already left with Regina. He swallowed hard, concern etched on his face. Alicia's offer to help stemmed more from a desire to avoid him than genuine assistance. They loved each other deeply, unwilling to let misunderstandings fester. Even knowing there was nothing between Caden and Yolanda, Alicia couldn't shake her irritation. When upset, some distance was best to prevent escalating arguments. Yet, Caden still arrived.

After attending to his affairs, he reached the hospital, his appearance marred by bloodstains, unsettling Alicia. "Where's Mrs. Moss?" he asked casually.

"She has a bruise on her chest. The doctor is treating it to improve circulation," Alicia replied.

"Alright." Caden sat beside her, as if it were the most natural thing. Alicia produced a ring from her pocket and offered it to him. "I found it. Here you go."

Caden's expression darkened. He was torn between praise and criticism; his frustration was evident. "Why return it? Wasn't it intended for you?" His tone was harsh. "You took a joke to heart. Is it enjoyable to be so stubborn?"

Alicia hesitated, her throat tight. She wouldn't back down, and his harshness only strengthened her resolve. "Yes, I am stubborn. I prefer clarity." Despite her anger, she carefully placed the ring in his open hand.

"Caden, I didn't accept your proposal, and I won't accept such a casual one. Keep it and don't offer it again!"

Caden grasped her hand, too weary to argue. "Alright, let's not make a scene." He then decisively tossed the ring into a nearby trash bin. "I'll find a better one."

Seeing his resolute action, Alicia's breath hitched. A wave of sadness washed over her. Did she desire a more extravagant ring? If she valued material things, why had she held onto that modest diamond so dearly?