Chapter: 165
The rain had lightened outside.

Like her mood, the lingering tension gave way to a sense of calm.

After Caden drove off, Alicia walked ahead beneath her umbrella, soon spotting Joshua's car approaching.

He stepped out, his eyes immediately scanning Alicia.

His gaze felt like it penetrated straight through her, leaving nothing unnoticed.

Since Alicia had tidied up earlier, she stood tall, meeting his inspection with quiet confidence.

It did not take long for Joshua to spot the bloodstain on her pants.

"What is going on?" he asked, his brow furrowing in confusion.

Alicia pressed her hand to her stomach, her expression downcast. “It is that time of the month."

Joshua's frown deepened. "Then why are you out? Do not we have medicine at home?"

Alicia explained, “We do not have any pads at home.”

“You could have had the maid pick some up for you."

“You are talking about Georgia?" Alicia murmured quietly. “She is not fond of me. I did not want to trouble her."

Her carefully crafted words were impeccable, and Joshua accepted them without question. "Get in. I will take you back."

After he dropped her off at the Yates family home, Joshua remained in the car.

Alicia asked, “Are you going out again?"

"Yes."

Joshua considered that, with Alicia on her period, there was not much for him to accomplish here. It would be wiser to spend time with Lilliana and ensure he made his presence known.

Before he left, Joshua handed Alicia a card.

"There is $500, 000 in here. Just tell me when you need more, and I will transfer it," he said, brushing his fingers gently along her cheek. "Be good. I will give you whatever you want."

Alicia grasped the card, a wave of cynicism washing over her.

The money in that account had originally belonged to her.

Joshua truly had the audacity to use her own money to control her.

After accepting the card, Alicia nodded in compliance.

“Make sure to drive carefully," she said quietly.

Joshua studied her closely.

She appeared exactly as she always had.

Unable to hold back, he Lifted her chin and pressed his lips against hers.

Alicia pushed down her discomfort and sidestepped the situation. "I have not had a chance to put on a pad yet, and it could get messy. I do not want to leave a stain on you.”

Joshua hesitated, then shifted to give her space.