Chapter: 234

She picked up the phone. “Hello? How may I assist you?"

Hank knew that a direct approach might make Alicia decline.

Nor would threats sway her.

So, he tried a different tack. "Ms. Bennett, Mr. Ward has picked up a striptease dance and would Like you to watch. Are you interested?"

Alicia remained silent for about ten seconds, leaving the atmosphere uncomfortably quiet.

Hank, although outwardly composed, was internally panicking, worried that Alicia might disconnect the call.

After a brief pause, Alicia finally spoke. “Caden has asked me to come over because of certain matters, correct?"

She was skeptical about Caden's motives, but she knew Hank wasn't foolish.

"It seems Caden has something significant to discuss," Hank admitted, caught off guard by her directness.

"Mr. Ward didn't provide specific reasons for the meeting. He just insisted that I ensure you're here within twenty minutes."

"Did he mention any particular topic?" Alicia inquired.

Hank paused, then responded, "He referred to the Gray family."

Understanding dawned on Alicia.

She paused momentarily, contemplating.

To break the silence, Hank added somewhat jokingly, “While Mr. Ward isn't planning a striptease, I'd be willing to perform one if that would ensure your arrival."

Alicia chuckled at the comment but quickly became somber. “It's alarming how much Caden demands, pushing everyone to their Limits."

Hank felt conflicted.

The job was well-paying, but often challenging.

He awkwardly reminded her, "Ms. Bennett, we only have twenty minutes, and five have already passed."

"Alright, I'll be there soon," Alicia confirmed.

Hank was moved by her kindness, thinking no wonder Caden valued her presence.

Alicia arrived at the company in precisely eighteen minutes.

Hank greeted her with a coffee. “Thank you, Ms. Bennett."

Accepting the coffee, Alicia felt a twinge of guilt, pondering if her manipulations had caused Hank any issues.

"Mr. Ward is waiting." Hank directed her onward.

Alicia nodded and proceeded.

As she passed through security, Hank glanced at the monitor and noticed something resembling a spray can in her bag.

"Ms. Bennett, is that pepper spray?" he inquired, unable to curb his curiosity about the array of items she carried, recalling how she always seemed well-prepared.

Ensuring Caden's safety was paramount, no matter the circumstances.

Alicia was momentarily stunned, then awkwardly clarified as she touched her bag. “Oh, that's not pepper spray."