Chapter: 429

He appeared completely detached.

Alicia avoided his gaze. After saying hello to Mr. Wade, she proceeded inside.

Caden also ignored her presence.

They crossed paths as if they were strangers.

Gerry, always light-hearted, commented, “Why do you both act like you're enemies? You're adults, yet you behave like children.”

They walked inside.

Caden watched Alicia as she walked away.

The dress he had tailored for her hugged her waist perfectly, her movements elegant and composed.

A twinge of irritation struck him.

He calmly reached for a glass of wine.

Gerry, always ready for some gossip, grabbed a glass and tapped it against Caden's. "So, about Joshua..."

Caden's expression soured and he set his glass back down.

Gerry looked confused. "What's the matter?"

Caden replied coldly, “You touched it. I won't drink it now."

Gerry was stunned for a moment, his eyes widening. “What's wrong with you, Caden? You think anything I've touched is too filthy for you?"

"Yes."

Gerry couldn't believe him, but he quickly figured out the reason behind his bad mood.

"Is your problem that I brought Alicia to the exhibition?" Gerry clicked his tongue and scolded, “Really, competing with a woman isn't a good look for a man."

Caden grabbed another glass of wine and drank it swiftly.

Then, Caden asked, "Do you find Alicia attractive?"

Gerry looked reflexively towards Alicia.

"She's beautiful, but no, not really. We know each other too well."

Gerry was puzzled. "Why do you ask all of a sudden?"

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

“No particular reason."

Gerry was skeptical. "You don't think I brought Alicia here because we're involved, do you?"

Gerry chuckled. "You know, Alicia came to me yesterday. She wanted to attend the art exhibition but didn't have an invitation. Asked if I could help. It was no trouble, so I said yes."

Caden picked up his wine glass and drained it in one go. "Did I ask for your commentary? You're awfully chatty," he retorted.

With a helpless shrug, Gerry replied, “Alicia shows more grace than you do. What was a small favor for me meant a great deal to her. She even stayed up all night composing a theme song for my upcoming movie to thank me."

Caden's demeanor shifted slightly.