Chapter: 514

Yolanda held a steaming cup of hot drink.

Smiling, she took a sip but immediately winced as the liquid scalded her.

Startled, she spilled the drink all over her clothes, her composure giving way to panic.

Caden frowned as he swiftly removed the scarf from around Yolanda's neck, using it to wipe the hot drink off Yolanda‘'s hands to prevent any burns.

Yolanda's eyes reddened instantly; she bit her lip to endure the pain, looking utterly distressed.

After a few moments, Caden finished cleaning her hands and tossed the scarf into a nearby trash can.

He paused, something nagging at him.

The scarf looked familiar.

Alicia watched his actions from a distance, her eyes flickering at his seemingly indifferent disposal of the scarf.

Deciding not to linger, she turned away, distancing herself from the unfolding drama.

Just as she was about to leave, Caden noticed her.

He narrowed his eyes slightly before turning back to Yolanda.

“Have the driver take you to the hospital to get that checked," he instructed.

Yolanda's voice trembled. "Caden, what about you?"

"I have things to handle. Don't worry about me," he replied, signaling the driver, who promptly opened the car door for Yolanda.

Once she saw the client off, Alicia noticed Caden approaching her.

He seemed determined, and she realized there was no escape now.

"Didn't you see my message?" Caden asked.

Alicia kept her gaze lowered. "I saw it. What do you want?"

Her cool, distant reply seemed to irritate him.

Just days earlier, their conversations had been flirty and filled with Laughter, but now she acted as if he were a stranger.

“Nothing serious; just wanted to catch up," Caden said, his eyes subtly scanning her exposed neck and arms. He was relieved to see no signs of an allergic reaction.

He then prodded, lowering his voice, "Did the investment go through okay?"

Alicia nodded. "Yes, it did."

Caden frowned, his impatience growing. "Is your neck stiff? Why won't you look at me? Look up."

She remained silent, her gaze fixed downward.

Feeling frustrated, Caden reached out, trying to tilt her chin upward, but Alicia swiftly stepped back, dodging his touch.

His face darkened immediately. "What is that supposed to mean?" Caden demanded.

Alicia was surprised by the intensity of her own reaction.

Ever since she saw Yolanda, she had been deeply upset, aware of her lingering feelings for Caden and the presence of another woman.