Chapter: 722

Madison, with a warm smile, guided her over while Gerry pulled out a chair, saying, "This way, Alicia."

But to Alicia's surprise, Madison settled her beside Cliff.

"Cliff, be sure to look after Ms. Bennett. It's her first time here."

Madison instructed.

Cliff's eyes widened in realization.

He understood immediately what Madison had in mind and protested, "Mom, this is not quite right."

Madison shot a sharp glare at Cliff.

Gerry chimed in, "Why does Alicia have to sit there? She is not really acquainted with Cliff, but she is comfortable with me."

In response, Madison playfully nudged him with her foot. “Just eat your food!"

With that, she turned back to Alicia, offering a bright smile before moving on to attend to other guests.

Alicia felt a wave of discomfort wash over her.

She was aware that Cliff was under pressure to settle down, but she had not anticipated Madison would see her as a potential match.

What should she do now? Stay put or make a hasty exit?

Cliff sat stiffly, a frown etched on his face as if he were enduring a sentence.

He had never imagined Madison would want to pair him with Alicia, Caden's significant other.

He felt trapped!

Nearby, Madison kept glancing in their direction, her eyes keenly observing.

Alicia broke the silence, her voice barely above a whisper. "Mr. Hopkins, would you like me to pretend this is not happening?"

Cliff tensed for a moment. "No need for that. Just act as you wish. I will handle my mother."

Alicia exhaled, feeling a weight lift from her shoulders.

Beneath his serious demeanor, Cliff turned out to be quite approachable.

Gradually, more guests began to fill the table.

Meanwhile, Madison was bustling about, playing the perfect host as she invited Caden to join the main table for drinks with some esteemed guests.

Just as Caden was about to accept, his gaze landed on Alicia seated next to Cliff.

Caden's eyes narrowed, his expression turning guarded.

Madison followed his line of sight and smiled warmly. “Caden, if I remember correctly, you and Ms. Bennett are friends, right?"

Caden replied, "You could say that."

"I have noticed you both have some business interactions, so it makes sense that you would be familiar with one another. Cliff here can be a bit clueless when it comes to women. If you have a moment, could you help him out? Maybe set him up with Ms. Bennett? You have known each other for a long time, and I am sure he will listen to you. Caden felt a mix of amusement and frustration at her suggestion. “Set him up with Alicia?"

"Absolutely! I think Ms. Bennett is simply wonderful!" Madison's enthusiasm was palpable. "She is not only beautiful but also has a remarkable temperament. Several of my friends have been inquiring if she is single. Naturally, I kept that information to myself. I want to keep such an exceptional girl within our family."

Caden wore a forced smile, masking his true feelings.