Chapter 715

Without a word, he removed his jacket and draped it gently around her shoulders. Alicia's eyes snapped shut, and tears, held back for what seemed an eternity, finally fell, tracing silent paths down her cheeks. She leaned into him, her fragile frame finding solace in the erratic rhythm of his heart.

"I'm taking you to the hospital," Caden said, his voice hoarse and detached, though his eyes betrayed the storm raging within.

"I'll deal with the reporters," Alicia said, her voice trembling, desperation making her breathless.

"Nothing happened."

Caden paused, his jaw tightening. Her words hung in the air.

"Caden, I wasn't violated," she insisted, her voice breaking as she looked up at him. "Do you believe me?"

He didn't respond immediately. Instead, he gently brushed her hair back, revealing a red, swollen mark on her cheek. His expression hardened. "Who did this to you?" he asked, a dangerous edge sharpening his tone.

Alicia let out a dry, humorless laugh, her exhaustion evident.

"Was it Benedict?" he guessed, his voice devoid of emotion yet carrying an undertone of restrained fury.

Caden suppressed his anger and reached for his phone, dialing quickly. "Jasmine, come immediately," he said, his tone firm and commanding.

Alicia's trembling fingers clutched his hand, her red, tear-filled eyes pleading for understanding. A thousand words fought for release, but only silence escaped her.

"No matter what happened, it's not your fault," Caden said quietly, his voice softening as his gaze met hers.

Alicia stared at him, stunned, as tears streamed down her cheeks, the weight of despair heavy upon her. "You don't trust me," she whispered.

Before she could say more, Jasmine hurried in, her face a mixture of worry and focus. "Mr. Ward," she said, her tone crisp but concerned.

Caden secured the coat around Alicia, carefully buttoning it. "Take Ms. Bennett to the hospital," he instructed Jasmine. "I'll join you soon."

Alicia felt her strength ebb as Jasmine gently led her away. Her steps were heavy, each one dragging her further into the haze of exhaustion and heartache.

Caden remained in the room for a moment, his gaze lingering on the scene. Then, with cold resolve, he turned to his bodyguards. "Take Blake away," he ordered, his tone steely and unyielding.