Chapter: 203

If he had accidentally consumed it, his obsessive cleanliness would have made him vomit for days.

Caden's voice was icy as he spoke succinctly. “Wash your hands thoroughly before returning to the kitchen."

Alicia remarked, "You still haven't explained how you knew!"

Caden replied sharply, “Your foolish eyes gave you away!"

Alicia felt a surge of anger. “Well, your eyes are even more foolish!"

Following the earlier incident, Caden scrutinized her every move.

Alicia, too, felt cautious around him.

She kept her behavior in check.

Before long, the shrimp finished cooking.

Alicia even found time to whip up a dipping sauce.

The dish was a vibrant blend of color, aroma, and flavor.

Caden stood behind her, watching her skilled movements. He was fully aware that she had perfected this routine over time.

She practiced tirelessly; all for Joshua.

As Alicia reached for a plate, she quickly pulled back her hands when she realized the rim was too hot.

Caden stepped in effortlessly, lifting the plate with one hand.

Alicia touched her ear and went to grab cutlery.

The dining table wasn't large by any means.

Once seated, they were positioned just the right distance apart.

Feeling hungry, Alicia dove into her meal without hesitation.

She ate slowly, with grace and poise, showing no signs of rush.

With a shrimp in her mouth, she glanced up at Caden, who sat upright and motionless.

“Why aren't you eating anything?" she asked tentatively. “Is it not to your taste?"

Earlier, while she was cooking, he appeared quite satisfied.

Caden maintained a neutral expression and asked, "Is it too hot for you?"

Alicia moved the food around in her mouth and blew on it lightly.

"Yes."

"Then tell me this, if I placed my hand on the plate, would it burn?"

Alicia found his question strange and tilted her head in confusion.

She instinctively glanced at his hands.

They were empty.