Chapter: 443

However, Monica quickly said, “It was Caden, wasn't it?"

Alicia didn't correct her. "How did you guess?"

“Who else would have the courage to be so brave? Joshua fears trouble, but Lilliana does not. Still, she was quiet just now. Who else in this room holds such influence besides Caden?"

Alicia couldn't help but smile.

She looked up and spotted Caden.

Mr. Wade was leading him and Gerry into a room, with a group carrying snacks and drinks following them.

Alicia turned her gaze away, lost in thought.

She leaned on Monica. “Monica, can I stay at your place tonight? I'll cook for us, alright?"

Monica noticed her weariness. "You look really tired. Don't worry about cooking. Let's go out and eat something delicious.”

Alicia said, "But I'd like to cook for you."

Monica was puzzled. "Didn't you always dislike cooking?"

Alicia went quiet.

She used to hate it because she had been too concerned about pleasing Joshua, who was finicky and preferred expensive meals. Her efforts usually ended up discarded.

In recent months, cooking for Caden was different.

He was easygoing and appreciated whatever she made.

He always cleaned his plate.

She even started to feel like she was a good cook.

"Let's go out to eat." Alicia smiled. "I have a lot to share with you." She tried to sound more upbeat.

As the art exhibition wound down, most attendees had departed.

Alicia was ready to leave.

The door to the room where Caden and the others were having drinks was open. She could hear the lively chatter, including Gerry's enthusiastic voice.

"I've finally got my chance!" he shouted. "Now, you have to go up and kiss whoever walks by first, no matter who Hearing this, Alicia and Monica froze.

Monica glanced down at her feet instinctively.

Noticing she was inadvertently leading, she quickly retreated, unwilling to kiss the stranger inside.

However, this meant Alicia would be next.

Unable to watch her friend possibly suffer, Monica stepped forward again.

Alicia noticed her action and seemed slightly taken aback. "Let's just run," Alicia proposed.

“Makes sense," Monica concurred.

As they prepared to flee, Hank emerged to inspect the noise.

Surprised to find Alicia and Monica outside, he whispered, "Ms. Bennett, what a surprise! Mr. Ward lost a game and now owes a kiss to a passerby. Could you assist?"