Chapter: 397

Caden was undoubtedly the reason for this newfound feeling of safety.

The evidence she gathered seemed trivial when confronted with the influence of those formidable players. If Joshua chose to escalate the situation, she could be in serious trouble.

Yet with Caden as her steadfast support, the situation felt entirely transformed.

Monica beamed at her, choosing not to pry further.

As long as Alicia felt content, nothing else truly mattered.

On the day Caden was set to return, he reached out to Alicia ahead of time.

“Are you available tonight?" He messaged.

Having just wrapped up her class, Alicia began to gather her belongings and responded, “Absolutely.”

Caden sent back, "I will be landing tonight at eight. Be at the apartment when I get there."

Alicia stared at the screen for a moment, drew in a long breath, and then powered her phone off.

The thought crossed her mind that the music teacher sitting beside her might catch a glimpse of the message.

Fortunately, the teacher kept chatting away, too caught up in conversation to notice anything odd.

Alicia responded here and there.

Still, her thoughts had already drifted to other things.

Caden had been out of town on a business trip for several days. The time apart had stretched Long enough that she was certain a sleepless night awaited her.

When they arrived at the school gate, the music teacher waved enthusiastically toward Alicia. "Goodbye, Ms. Bennett. I need to grab a birthday present for my husband."

Alicia smiled and returned the wave.

The thought crossed her mind-should she be planning something for Caden as well?

He had been there for her in so many ways ever since their work together began.

Cooking was starting to feel repetitive, and there wasn't much she could contribute when it came to his job.

She chewed on her lip, her thoughts wandering far and wide.

She searched her mind, struggling to think of something Caden might truly appreciate.

After what felt like forever, an idea finally dawned on her, and her face brightened.

This is perfect!

Once Caden stepped off the plane, he glanced at his phone.

A message from Alicia sat unread: "I have planned something special for you."

His imagination started to drift, wondering what she could be up to.

He had clearly instructed her to wait at the apartment earlier.

Now, she mentioned a surprise.

What else could it possibly mean?