Chapter: 508

As the Christmas loomed on the horizon, the city buzzed with activity, industries kicking into high gear. Alicia seized the opportunity, arranging meetings with a string of gallery investors.

Thanks to Gerry's well-placed connections, everything fell smoothly into place, and the negotiations went surprisingly well.

After one of the meetings with her investors, she called Gerry to invite him out to dinner.

Gerry's response caught her off guard. "I didn't do much, really. It was Caden who set everything in motion. I just arranged the meetings.”

Alicia's heart skipped.

Memories of the day she had a fallout with Caden flooded her mind.

Despite their fight over the gallery project, it seemed she was still reaping the benefits of his foresight.

“Thank him for me, will you?" Alicia said resignedly.

Gerry chuckled, ever the peacemaker. “Why don't you thank him yourself?"

Her pulse quickened, but she kept her tone steady. "He's busy. I wouldn't want to bother him."

Sensing her reluctance, Gerry didn't push further.

"Well, it's your first venture. There'll be hiccups along the way. If you ever find yourself in a pickle and you don't want to call Caden, just call me."

“Thank you, Mr. Hopkins," Alicia replied, her gratitude genuine. “I really appreciate it."

After exchanging a few pleasantries, Alicia hung up, feeling a bone- deep weariness settle over her.

She had been running at full speed for days, barely pausing for breath. Now that the most pressing tasks were done, all she wanted was to collapse into bed.

But there was still dinner with the investors tonight-at seven sharp.

With a tired glance at the clock, she squared her shoulders, pulled herself together, and dove back into work.

Meanwhile, Yolanda lingered in Caden's office.

They were both just about to get off work.

She had come to Warrington with a clear goal-to help Caden with the crucial chip development project. It was in its early stages, and there was no room for error.

But Caden, who was worried about her health, wasn't about to let her push herself too hard.

"It's time to eat," he said, his tone brisk and businesslike. "I'LL have the driver take you back to Joy Mansion."

Yolanda hesitated, a soft smile curling her lips. She didn't want the evening to end. Batting her eyelashes shyly, she asked in a soft voice, “Caden, could I join you for dinner?"

Caden's expression darkened slightly. "I'm used to dining alone."

Despite anticipating his reluctance, Yolanda couldn't mask her disappointment.

Since childhood, she had harbored a crush on him, and his current success and composure only deepened her affection.

Recently, she had begun to understand his reserved nature better. His cool demeanor belied a meticulousness that intrigued her, drawing her even closer.

"Caden, I've been here in Warrington for days without leaving Joy Residence much. I'd love to explore some local cuisine," Yolanda proposed, her eyes filled with hope. "Will you join me for dinner?" she pressed.

Caden's face remained stoic. "It's too cold outside. Don't be stubborn."

“We have a car, right?" Yolanda quickly countered. “It won't consume much of your time. Besides, we have some business matters that we could discuss over dinner," she reasoned, leaving him little room to decline.