Chapter: 512

Turning around, Alicia was surprised to see a familiar face, causing her heart to constrict.

The tipsy Mr. Hoffman quickly sobered up, exclaiming, "Mr. Ward?"

Caden, without any expression, returned the glass Alicia held to the table.

In a calm yet commanding tone, he questioned, "What kind of party requires this much drinking?"

Alicia's expression turned into a frown.

She subtly nudged Caden, hinting not to interfere with her handling of the situation.

His high status often led him to dismiss others.

She knew, however, that she would have to manage the fallout.

But the group of men at the table had already acquiesced. “No more, Mr. Ward. We were only teasing with Ms. Bennett. She hasn't had much to drink," they chimed in.

Caden had introduced them to Alicia, and now he was clearly standing by her side. It was clear to everyone that something was unfolding between them.

Offending either Caden or Alicia over drinks wasn't worth it.

Alicia stared deeply at Caden, who remained impassive.

He avoided her gaze completely.

She felt his anger but couldn't grasp the reason.

Bryant suggested they wrap up the dinner.

While Alicia continued to entertain, Caden took her by the wrist and firmly instructed, "Go throw up that drink you just had."

Alicia attempted to free her hand but to no avail.

Feeling powerless yet trusting Caden's intentions, she complied without resistance.

She directed her assistant to keep the evening running smoothly.

Then, she excused herself to the restroom.

Quickly, she purged the alcohol and was rinsing her hands when the stall door opened, and Yolanda emerged.

Alicia caught Yolanda's reflection in the mirror.

The water ceased running.

Yolanda adjusted her scarf at the mirror.

Seeing the logo up close on the scarf, Alicia's heart sank.

It was the scarf she had once given to Caden, now worn by Yolanda.

Alicia remembered the thrill that had filled her when she bought the scarf, her heart fluttering with excitement and anticipation.

But life had a way of being unpredictable. That very day, she had a heated argument with Caden.

She tried to console herself; after all, it was just a scarf. She had already given it to Caden; it was his to do with as he pleased.

Yet she couldn't shake off the image of him handing it over to Yolanda.