“Cost? Are we supposed to measure relationships and marriages in terms of cost?”

Stunned by his serious tone, Hank apologized. “I’m sorry, Mr. Ward. That was inappropriate.”

Caden had once viewed marriage strategically, a means to align with a woman of similar status for mutual business gain. However, times had changed. Alicia had transformed him into a believer in romance.

He reclined, expertly lighting a cigarette. He wasn't a heavy smoker, but the nicotine soothed him in that moment. His expression remained troubled. “I’m only twenty-six, and Dorian is well over fifty. How long can he keep up this fight?” he mused. Even if he lost this battle, future opportunities would arise. Wealth could be regained; losing Alicia would be irreplaceable.

He inhaled deeply, his resolve hardening. Dorian was pressuring him to marry Yolanda, but Caden was determined to cherish Alicia and marry her.

His driver had brought Alicia to the corporate office. As evening fell and a chill wind blew, she warmed her hands, noticing the slight redness in his eyes. “Were you very busy today? I tried calling, but couldn’t reach you,” she asked gently.

He drew her close as they sat. Instead of answering, he asked, “What did you want to discuss?”

Alicia chuckled softly, looping her arms around his neck. “I dreamt we had a daughter who looked just like you. Caden, would you like to have a daughter?”

A soft smile touched his eyes. “Why wouldn’t I? I want to make a baby with you tonight, and then we can have a family—perhaps two kids in a few years.”

Alicia’s face flushed crimson. “What do you mean by ‘make a baby’? That’s such a crude way to put it.”

His hand, seemingly of its own accord, slipped beneath her shirt to caress her waist. His touch was light, restless, gliding back and forth. He smirked playfully.