Chapter: 276

But Caden already knew she would think these things. "That's why I turned them down on your behalf."

Alicia breathed a sigh of relief. "Good job."

Caden grabbed a pack of tissues and began wiping his hands.

"You might have dodged a bullet today, but you won't always be so lucky. Although you got hurt within the Gray family's property, you should know that it is of no consequences to them, or the Yates family, for that matter. They can make it all go away with a snap of their fingers and a thick wad of cash. But the same could not be said for the Reyes family. They will definitely go after you to avenge Ted, and they will not be merciful."

Alicia fell silent. Her hands slowly balled into fists.

Caden glanced at her when she said nothing. He tossed the tissue into the trash and sat on the bed. Reaching out, he gently pried her fingers open, one by one, and set her hand, palm down, on the blanket.

"Are you scared? If that's the case, then the most sensible thing to do is to find someone powerful to back you up. Don't you agree?"

Alicia looked up, and she was met by his deep, meaningful gaze.

For a few seconds, she could do nothing more than stare at Caden in a daze.

She was torn, her emotions warring with her sense.

"Certain paths may appear absurd at first glance," Caden said, “but they may turn out to be the easiest route. Likewise, the steady, well-trodden roads may well lead you to a dead end. It's all about making the right choice."

"You're talking just like Joshua," Alicia muttered.

“Well, with me, there is mutual consent," Caden pointed out in an indifferent tone. "Can you say the same for Joshua?"

Alicia was at a loss for words yet again. "When did you find out?"

Caden shrugged. "When he touches you, you physically recoil. When I touch you, you get wet."

Alicia let out a small gasp.

Did this man have no sense of propriety at all?

She pursed her lips and narrowed her eyes. "You knew my intentions toward the Gray family from the start, but you didn't stop me. It's because you also wanted Joshua to fall from grace, right?"

"It's not just him," Caden said blandly. "The entire Yates family."

Alicia remembered the dream she had. Who would have thought that the mighty Caden Ward had endured such a difficult childhood?

"Your target is Joshua, and mine is the Yates family. If we do this, we will have a clear deal. We will be partners. This isn't some friends with benefits type of situation, do you understand?" Caden leaned in slightly, as if to emphasize his next words. “It's completely different from your current relationship with Joshua."

Alicia's heart wavered.

She decided to be honest. “I've been staying with the Yates family because I want to use this identity to accomplish my goals. I'm nowhere near there yet, so I can't leave for now."

Caden was blunt as well. “Have you slept with Joshua during this time?"

Alicia shook her head immediately. "No."

Caden raised an eyebrow. "So, you don't want to? Or is he impotent?"

Alicia hesitated before replying, "At the moment, it's a bit of both."

Caden let out a quiet laugh. "I expected more from him."

Sensing that her resolve was wavering, he didn't push further.

Instead, he asked, "What size underwear do you wear?"