Chapter: 551

Her stubbornness about saving face and past betrayals had made her wary of trusting men. Caden understood this, so he used this approach to support her journey toward financial independence.

As they watched the movie, the thunder outside rumbled louder.

Caden felt unwilling to engage in anything given the circumstances.

Alicia reached out to soothe him.

Instead of using words, she took his hand, gently rubbed it, embraced him, and talked about cheerful topics to draw his attention away.

Caden understood her intentions.

“It's just thunder. It's not a big deal," he assured her.

Alicia met his gaze. "I know what you're afraid of."

The thunderstorm struck the day his mother passed away.

That memory continued to haunt him, leaving a lasting impact on his life.

Caden maintained a blank expression. "Concentrate on the movie. It's nearly finished, and you haven't watched a single moment."

Alicia bit her lip and settled onto his lap.

Caden glanced up at her lazily.

“Does your back still hurt?" he asked.

Alicia's cheeks turned red. "I don't like rainy days, either. After my parents' accident, it rained constantly."

“What's wrong? Can you only speak when you're sitting on my lap?"

He hadn't intended to do anything, but her charm was hard to resist.

She knew he was dealing with an illness.

Alicia remained silent, and simply pressed her lips against his.

Caden couldn't resist and kissed her back.

With newfound courage, Alicia whispered, "Caden, I want it. Caden gazed into her clear, earnest eyes, feeling a tightness in his chest. "Why are you suddenly feeling up to it?"

Alicia could tell that he knew what she was thinking.

She then asked, “Is that something you want, too?"

Caden deliberately said, "Not really. Ms. Bennett, show me what you've got."

Alicia was taken aback.

She lowered her gaze, shifting her hips slightly as she looked down.

“You're going to burst out of your pants," she said playfully. “Don't you want this, Mr. Ward?"

Caden replied, "No."

Alicia forced a smile.

She quickly slid off him and made her way to the door.