Chapter: 323

“Nothing,” she replied, looking at him with mockery. “I don't have a choice, do I?"

She truly didn't have a say in the matter.

Who could win her over was entirely up to them.

Joshua knew he had no chance of winning, but his competitive spirit flared. Clenching his fists, he declared, “Caden is no match for me."

Alicia laughed at his remark.

"Those who have nothing to lose aren't intimidated by those who have everything at stake. He's single now and has no attachments. What about you? Lilliana is pregnant. Aren't you concerned about that?"

Joshua's expression soured. “Alicia, are you siding with Caden to mock me?"

“No, I'm just speaking the truth," she said with a shrug. "You're impulsive, and I'm simply reminding you not to jeopardize the bigger picture for minor issues."

Lilliana represented the bigger picture. Alicia was merely a trivial matter.

He needed to understand that.

Joshua was able to see right through her.

"Are you planning to leave me, so you can be with Caden?" he asked.

Alicia said carefully, "I won't be with anyone, but as long as I'm staying at the Yates Mansion, I'll always pose a risk to your relationship with Lilliana. You should really reflect on that."

Joshua dismissed her hypocritical words.

He took her hand and firmly stated, "Caden wants you just to compete with me. If you accept him, it won't end well for you. Do you understand?"

Alicia flinched at his grip, and she struggled to free herself.

Believing she was trying to escape, Joshua Lifted her and carried her to the bedroom.

Afterwards, he locked the door.

"What are you planning to do to me, Joshua?" Alicia asked worriedly.

He pushed her onto the bed and placed a firm grip around her neck.

"What are you thinking? Have you forgotten why I brought you to the Yates Mansion?"

Then, he began taking her clothes off.

Alicia held onto her shirt, firmly resisting his attempts at undressing her.

She knew Joshua had taken the drug, so he wouldn't react physically.

However, Caden had left marks on her skin.

She couldn't let Joshua discover them.

This bastard was a brutal man.

Fury surged through Alicia, and she slapped him hard across the face.

This was enough to startle Joshua.

With a stern expression, he grunted, "You really don't want to give yourself to me?"