Chapter 71

Alicia took a taxi to the beauty salon, dressed simply. Inside, she surveyed the various beauty packages. The beautician, noting Alicia's refined air, steered her toward the most extravagant options. Alicia, however, remained focused on her goal: meeting Rachel Gray, Randolph's wife. She selected a $100,000 package and paid with a calm smile.

Moments later, her phone rang. It was Joshua. "What did you just buy?" he texted. Alicia smiled sarcastically. His concern over a $100,000 purchase amused her, considering his indifference to her spending millions. She replied, "The autumn weather has dried out my skin, so I’m getting a facial."

Later, while resting, his belated reply arrived: "It is good to give priority to your appearance." A more suggestive message followed: "Has your period come yet?" Alicia replied dismissively, "Not yet," then switched off her phone.

The next morning, knowing Rachel's routine, Alicia positioned herself strategically. Soon, Rachel arrived. Alicia smiled and greeted her. Rachel stopped, recognizing Alicia. "Miss Bennett?"

Alicia remained outwardly calm, though surprised by Rachel's recognition. Rachel, impeccably groomed, settled beside Alicia. "What a coincidence," she remarked. "I've never seen you here before."

Alicia seized the opportunity. "Mrs. Gray, you have an impressive memory. We've only met a few times, and yet you remember me."

Rachel laughed softly. "How could I forget? Gerry's movie was the talk of the town, and your voice made his theme song unforgettable. I always notice beautiful, talented women like you."

"You are very kind, Mrs. Gray," Alicia replied.

"Are you here alone?" Rachel asked, looking around.

"Yes," Alicia answered.

Rachel's expression shifted momentarily. She didn't pursue the question, but Alicia sensed her curiosity.

Rachel proved far more charming than Alicia had anticipated, genuinely kind. As their treatments progressed, they began to connect, their casual meeting blossoming into a nascent friendship. Alicia added Rachel to WhatsApp.

In a private room, Rachel changed and began applying makeup. She seemed troubled, perhaps by the proximity of a younger face. She spent longer than usual perfecting her look, examining her reflection with a faint grimace.

"Do you have any plans later, Mrs. Gray?" Alicia asked, interrupting her thoughts.

Rachel smiled, finishing her lipstick. "Yes, my husband is meeting a very important guest tonight. He's invited me to dinner."

"She must adore her husband," Alicia mused.

Rachel's smile faltered. "Of course. We've been together for so many years." She paused, a hint of nostalgia in the air. Then, changing her demeanor, she turned to Alicia. "I feel something is wrong with my look today. Would you mind helping?"

Alicia, after examining Rachel's appearance, suggested, "Your complexion is lovely with the pearls and lipstick, but it seems too delicate. A bolder contrast, perhaps darker jewelry, would balance it."

"I didn't bring any dark jewelry," Rachel sighed.

Alice, remembering the salon's new jewelry collection, purchased a set: bracelet, necklace, and earrings. She helped Rachel accessorize. The result was stunning; Rachel's elegance was enhanced with a touch of daring.

Rachel, pleased with her reflection, asked, "How much was the jewelry? I'll pay you."

Alicia smiled. "There's a new restaurant downtown. Let me treat you to lunch next time. I'm new here and would love to get to know you better."

Rachel countered, "Why wait? Randolph is here; why don't you join us tonight?"

Alicia hesitated. "But Mr. Gray is meeting a client. Wouldn't it be inappropriate?"

Rachel waved her hand. "It's informal. Mr. Ward has business with the bank, and Randolph thought it would be nice to connect; more of an informal meeting."

The informality eased Alicia's concerns, but the name piqued her interest.

"Mr. Ward?" Alicia asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Yes, Caden Ward," Rachel replied. "He just returned from overseas. You've heard of him, right?"

Alicia's heart sank. The universe seemed determined to reunite her with Caden.

Rachel, sensing Alicia's hesitation, added, "Oh! You wrote songs for Gerry, didn't you? He'll be there tonight, too."

This eased Alicia's tension. The prospect of seeing Gerry made the dinner invitation much more appealing.

Meanwhile, Gerry, at the cocktail party, swirled his wine. His current company was less than stimulating. He watched Caden, engrossed in his laptop, and rolled his eyes. "You're still recovering from that cold. Relax!"

Caden leaned back, unfazed. "It's nothing."

His hectic schedule and lack of sleep had taken their toll, leaving him pale and distant.

Gerry sighed dramatically. "With you moping, no woman will chat me up." Caden moved away, seeking peace.

His escape was short-lived. A striking woman approached their table. Gerry smiled confidently, reaching for his phone, but the woman ignored him completely. Her gaze fell on Caden. With a sweet smile, she asked, "Mr. Ward, can I add you on WhatsApp?"