Chapter: 229

She pondered over her next steps and decided to call Caden.

"Do you still have time to talk?" Caden asked playfully.

“Why not?" Alicia replied.

He fell silent.

She dove right in. "I have a question about the document you gave me today. Does Randolph know anything about it?"

Caden hesitated before asking, "Is this a good time to talk about it?"

“Why not?"

"Where's Joshua?"

Alicia paused, realizing Caden misunderstood. "I didn't sleep with him," she corrected quickly.

After clarifying, she felt a wave of guilt and covered her mouth.

Why was she justifying herself to him?

Caden laughed softly. “Okay.”

Alicia's anxiety grew. She composed herself and pressed, “Now, please answer my question."

Caden answered casually, “He doesn't know anything."

“Why then did Rachel invite me to her house so suddenly?" Alicia expressed her fears. "I feel like it's a setup, Like walking into a lion's den."

Caden questioned her, "Are you afraid of him?"

Alicia didn't deny her fear. "Randolph isn't a good man. Many people fear him."

In her vulnerable state, it seemed anyone could exploit her.

Her ability to resist was not yet strong.

Caden, speaking calmly, noted, "You're terrified just thinking about meeting them. Do you really think you can assist Joshua with his issues?"

Alicia was taken aback, having momentarily forgotten her fabricated story.

She hesitated. "Bravery isn't constant-it varies with circumstances."

Caden chuckled knowingly. “So, fear has overtaken you now."

“Yes," Alicia admitted, trying to maintain her composure.

“Fear isn't permanent. You might overcome it soon," Caden assured her.

"Relax, Randolph isn't going to devour you."

Alicia remained silent.

Both were quiet, yet the call continued.

Alicia sensed an unresolved issue lingered, but struggled to articulate it.

Caden also stayed silent.