Chapter 690

He was in a dilemma. This, he realized, was how a king felt, torn between duty and desire. But who in their right mind would willingly leave such a warm, sensual embrace? He might as well halve his lifespan.

“Looks like I won’t be getting much peace tonight,” Caden grumbled. “I can’t even imagine what my employees will think.”

Alicia giggled. “You’ve only yourself to blame for being so easily aroused.”

“Who told you to be so tempting?” he retorted.

“One look, and the vision of you is seared into my mind,” she replied, nudging him toward the door. “Get going.”

As he reached the door, Alicia called out, “There’s something you haven’t said, Caden.” Her eyes sparkled with anticipation.

He knew what she meant. Considering his current state, however, he decided to deny her satisfaction as well. “I’ll tell you tomorrow,” he said. “Dream of me tonight.”

Alicia pouted, wrapping herself in the blanket. “Fine. Don’t say it. Just leave. I’m going to sleep.”

Caden left. The door closed, and Alicia sighed, settling back against the pillows to watch the seaside fireworks. Captivated, she whispered into the darkness, “Caden, I love you.”

Mr. Ward, sorry to bother you, but things are spiraling out of control. Since last month, the overseas market has fallen into a monopoly, throwing the company into chaos. Confidential information has been leaked; the competition is aggressively undercutting us and targeting us directly. Employees are stressed, and resignations are flooding in.

Hank avoided Caden’s gaze. The tension was palpable.

Caden remained calm. “Did we only just discover this?”

Hank nodded.