Chapter: 421
“Where are you going?" Caden asked, his voice deepening.
“I'm going to sleep in the guest room," she replied, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside.
"Trying to avoid any awkwardness?" His tone turned icy. "Or do you think you're somehow interfering with my engagement?"
Stunned by his directness, Alicia paused. "I'm not that influential. It's just that the new bed makes it hard for me to sleep. I'd be more comfortable in the guest room. Caden's expression darkened further, his eyes narrowing. He knew his engagement unsettled her, even if she refused to admit it."
“I haven't agreed to any engagement," he said icily. "You don't have to be so uptight."
Alicia's body tensed.
She knew he didn't take marriage seriously, yet it still made her uncomfortable.
She quietly stepped back.
“Have you forgotten our agreement?" Caden's voice was sharp.
Alicia responded firmly, “The agreement doesn't stipulate that we share a bed."
Her words hit him hard, leaving him momentarily speechless.
He inwardly cursed himself for bringing up the agreement at such a moment.
Alicia opened the door and left, her steps brisk, her heart still unsettled.
She knew well that her relationship with Caden was strictly contractual, yet, in the quiet of the night, memories of their shared moments lingered in her mind.
Were they truly just business partners?
Before she could find an answer, another thought surfaced: "Alicia, you two will eventually part ways. He's free to be with anyone he wants. Why are you letting this bother you?"
Determined not to let it affect her mood, she decided to let the matter rest.
She knew that dealing with Caden was like handling a loaded spring— treat him well, and things would go smoothly; challenge him, and he'd make things difficult.
So, she decided to act as if nothing had been said that night.
The next morning, she prepared breakfast as usual.
Caden poured himself a glass of water, casting a quick glance at the spread on the table.
Nothing appeared different.
“Make me an omelet," he demanded, taking a sip, his face expressionless.
Alicia straightened, holding her ground. "Isn't what I've made enough?"
"I'm not in the mood for this," he replied curtly.
"There's no time. I have plans. Eat what's there or skip it," Alicia asserted.
Caden's gaze narrowed. "Mr. Wade's having an art exhibit tomorrow. Did you get an invite?"
Alicia paused. Was he threatening her again? Anger flared within her.
“It's just an invitation. Do you think it's exclusive to you? I don't need you to take me."
Caden sneered. "And who else will take you?"