Chapter: 288

Caden gave her a sideways glance. "Are your hands connected to your head?"

"Yes," Alicia replied, stuffing more grapefruit into her mouth defiantly.

Without warning, Caden leaned in closer, pinning her beneath him.

Just as Alicia was about to put the grapefruit in her mouth, Caden leaned in and snatched it away with his mouth.

Their lips brushed for a brief moment before they quickly pulled away from each other.

Alicia froze.

She stared at Caden's striking face. It was merely inches away from hers.

The unexpected closeness made her heart pound wildly.

She felt completely flustered.

Caden held himself above her, chewing the fruit slowly. His eyes were locked on hers with an unreadable expression.

Alicia's heartbeat grew faster with each passing moment.

Their chests were almost touching, and she feared he might sense her growing unease. Carefully, she reached out, trying to put some space between them.

Caden's Adam's apple moved as he swallowed the grapefruit.

The fresh citrus scent hung between them, filling the small space that separated their faces.

"There are two pieces left. Will you feed it to me, or should I steal another kiss?" Caden said.

Alicia felt tension building up inside her. Trying not to lose control, she responded quickly, “I'll feed you."

Caden gave her a smile. “With your mouth?" he asked.

“No! With my hand!" Alicia answered loudly.

Caden moved away, finally giving her some space.

Alicia took a moment to collect herself. She picked up the last two pieces of fruit and moved closer to feed him.

She fed him without lingering, making sure there was no unnecessary contact. The interaction remained simple and quick.

Thankfully, Caden behaved himself.

As the tension started to ease, Alicia felt the atmosphere become more comfortable again. She decided to speak up. “How does it taste? Do you like it?"

Caden looked at her directly. "It's not that impressive. To be honest, it's just so-so," he replied.

Caden had never been a fan of fruit. Grapefruit, in particular, had always seemed bland and bothersome to him.

But today, as he ate it, he found it unexpectedly satisfying.

Alicia grumbled under her breath, "Just so-so? I picked out the sweetest one for you."

Caden turned his head and looked at her.

"It's sweet, but not overly so. It's juicy enough, though," he said, taking his time with each word. "I'd rate it a solid seven out of ten."

Alicia stayed silent, unsure of what to say.