Chapter: 410

With a concerned expression, she inquired, "It's gotten colder today. Are your pants thick enough? Maybe you should wear some long johns."

Caden was momentarily at a loss for words.

He gazed at her. "What are those?"

Alicia turned and sifted through a drawer, soon extracting a pair of black pants.

"These," she said, displaying them. "I picked them up last week. We're expecting snow soon, and it gets piercingly cold. You're frequently outdoors. I imagine you wouldn't want any lingering cold- induced pains."

Caden examined the pants.

A look of disgust spread across his face.

He began to walk away. “Thanks, but no. I'm not going to freeze."

Alicia caught his arm. "Age isn't on your side, and style won't keep you warm. These are Lightweight. They won't add bulk. It feels like you're wearing nothing at all, yet they're incredibly warm."

Caden pulled away.

"I can't wear these. Just get rid of them." Suddenly, he pointed outside at the puppy. “Why not repurpose the pants into a couple of warm belly bands for him?"

Alicia responded, "He already has his outfits. You need to wear yours."

She insisted, "Just try them on. Don't be so stubborn."

Caden stood his ground, refusing to wear them.

Noticing his scornful look, Alicia said, "I've already removed the tags, so they can't be returned. I can't just let them sit unused, can I? They cost several thousand dollars each."

Caden exited, dismissive. "Do what you like with them."

Alicia then had a thought and followed him. "What about giving them to Hank? He's always outside; he must get cold."

Caden stopped but remained unimpressed. "He wouldn't wear them either."

"How do you know? Hank isn't as particular as you."

"He has a lot of leg hair. They would itch."

Alicia fell silent.

After a pause, she suggested, "Then let's give them to Mr. Hopkins."

Caden said, "Gerry doesn't want second-hand items."

“They've never been worn," Alicia replied.

“Once the tags are off, they're considered second-hand," Caden insisted. He frowned. “And really, who would appreciate long johns as a gift?"

She retorted, "Not everyone is as picky as you. Do you think they're going to wear them over their trousers or something?"

Alicia was determined to find a new owner for the long johns.

She decided that she would come up with another plan if Hank and Gerry declined them.

Then she went to fetch a bag to pack them. "I actually bought two pairs, one for Hank and one for Mr. Hopkins. If you're free today, you could deliver them."

Caden was momentarily speechless.