Chapter: 213

Caden then asked, “Do you hate it?"

Though the question was casual, his gaze burned with intensity.

It was as if he wouldn't allow her to say yes, but he didn't seem worried if she did.

Alicia found herself unable to lie, but she also couldn't bring herself to admit the truth, so she turned her head away to focus on something else.

Caden took the opportunity to push further. "If the answer is no, then think of me when you're unable to sleep."

Think of him while doing what?

They both understood the implication.

However, they couldn't bring themselves to say it out loud.

Alicia felt a wave of embarrassment wash over her. "Just be quiet."

Once they were done, she couldn't bring herself to look at Caden and quickly found an excuse to head to the bathroom.

Caden leaned back in his chair, seeking a moment of respite.

He didn't have a habit of smoking, so there were no cigarettes in the house. He closed his eyes, allowing himself to relax while waiting for his heartbeat to steady.

His shirt was half-unbuttoned, revealing a sheen of sweat on his muscular chest, which was rising and falling with each breath.

After what felt like an eternity, Alicia emerged slowly from the bathroom.

She stood a few feet away, attempting to act as if nothing had happened. “Where's the thing I asked for?"

Caden slowly opened his eyes.

He looked deep into her eyes before walking to his desk.

Alicia followed closely behind.

She positioned herself at the edge of the desk.

After leaning against it to steady her shaky legs and slightly trembling waist, she tried to find her balance.

Caden handed her the remaining third of the documents.

He then retrieved a sealed envelope from the drawer.

"Inside of this envelope are some photographs," he explained, tapping the envelope. "Randolph doesn't want anyone to know about them. They're of no use to me, but you might find them valuable."

Alicia glanced at his hand for a brief moment.

His hands were already clean, showcasing distinct and slender fingers.

It was impossible to tell what unsavory things they had done just moments ago.

Caden noticed her lingering gaze and smirked. "What's on your mind? Do you want to do it again?"

Alicia covered her mouth and coughed softly.

Then, she discreetly accepted the envelope from him.

"I didn't mean it that way. I was just curious. Why do you put up with all this trouble?"