Chapter: 257

"Is there anything here that could enhance intelligence?" He glanced at Alicia. "This lady might require quite a bit."

Alicia clenched her teeth and kicked him under the table.

Caden did not flinch. His body was as solid as iron, leaving her with a throbbing toe.

She gasped, her lips twitching at the corners.

Noticing the maid frozen in uncertainty, she said, “Why don't you whip up some kebabs for me? Cook them thoroughly, and make sure they are loaded with chili."

However, a plump child snatched the kebabs away.

Alicia recognized Ted and didn't feel like arguing. “That is Mrs. Reyes's son, He is fiercely protective of her."

She then smacked her lips. "Those kebabs smell delicious. What a shame."

Caden glanced over.

Ted was seated next to Mrs. Reyes, relishing the kebabs.

Mrs. Reyes held him in her arms and cast a look in their direction.

Seeing Alicia enjoying her food so heartily, Mrs. Reyes gritted her teeth in envy.

"Ted," Mrs. Reyes began, “if someone were to bully me, would you defend me?"

Ted responded earnestly, “Absolutely, Mommy! You are my favorite!"

She leaned in and whispered in his ear, "Then..."

Later, Rachel applied makeup and fetched a finer wine to make amends with Caden.

Her eyes were puffy and red. "Mr. Ward, I would like to propose a toast in your honor. Otherwise, Randolph will have my head."

Caden maintained a stoic demeanor.

He sipped the wine.

This one was considerably stronger than the last.

As it coursed down his throat, he winced ever so slightly.

Rachel subsequently filled a glass for Alicia.

“Ms. Bennett..."

Rachel's voice was as feeble and pitiful as before. Struggling to hold back tears, she said, "I bear most of the blame for today. I am truly sorry, please forgive me."

Such a plea felt like moral blackmail to Alicia.

After being slapped, Rachel now approached her with humility. If Alicia chose to remain resentful, it would only paint her as unreasonable.

After a few seconds of silence, Alicia finally lifted her glass.

Caden glanced in her direction.

He nudged her under the table.

Alicia recognized that he was subtly warning her against drinking, yet she bluntly replied, “Why did you kick me?"