“Let me see your hand!” she exclaimed, still catching her breath as she grabbed his arm. “This is serious. You might get blisters. I’ll get some ointment.”
But then she halted, surprise flashing across her face. His long fingers were unscathed, with no hint of burns.
Alicia looked up to find Caden watching her with a mischievous grin. “Did I worry you?” he teased, a playful spark in his eyes. “It was just warm water. Without a little trick, how else could I get you to come check on me?”
Alicia’s anger surged, and she gave him a light punch. “You’re absolutely impossible, Caden!” Just moments before, she had been genuinely terrified!
Caden drew her into another kiss, a touch of guilt softening his demeanor. “My stomach isn’t feeling great,” he said. “Could you make me some noodles?”
Alicia looked at him skeptically. “Are you still trying to fool me with your tricks?”
Caden sighed, his expression sincere. “I’m telling the truth this time. My stomach really hurts.”
“I don’t believe you,” she retorted, pushing him away as she started to walk off. “Make them yourself!”
Caden sighed.
Finally, Alicia returned to the kitchen to make a bowl of noodle soup for him. It was a generous portion, and Caden ate every bit. Seeing him look significantly better afterward, Alicia let out a sigh of relief. Yet, she couldn’t help but feel resigned that her life seemed perpetually intertwined with Caden, without any other choice.
After finishing the meal, Caden was in the mood for affection, but Alicia, leaning against him, softly said, “My stomach’s not feeling great. Let’s not tonight.” Her face clearly showed her discomfort, so Caden relaxed and didn’t press further.
As the night progressed, they fell asleep wrapped in each other’s arms. Alicia quickly fell asleep, while Caden gently released himself to attend to some pressing business matters that had accumulated throughout the day. He frowned at some of the updates.
Shortly after, Caden made an international call. The person on the line reported gravely, “Mr. Ward, we have confirmation. Gareth is indeed causing problems.”
Caden, leaning against the headboard, looked serious. “For now, keep it quiet.”