Chapter: 747

The table was large, hosting only the three of them. The spacing between Alicia and Caden was just right.

Alicia maintained the decorum of a guest, eating elegantly and quietly.

Her beauty was unquestionable.

He stole glances at her repeatedly, and his irritation faded.

By the time he looked her way a third time, Ciara coughed. “Is there something on her face? Why do you keep staring at her?"

Caden slowly looked away.

He began to eat.

His hunger was intense, especially sitting next to Alicia, boosting his appetite significantly.

During the meal, he served food onto Alicia's plate.

With Ciara watching, Alicia could not decline and ate all that was offered.

Ciara then spoke about Ray.

She knew Ray was sick and felt compassion for him, so she proposed letting him stay at Joy Mansion to recover.

"I've reached out to his family. It might take a few days to get a response. His parents are imprisoned. I'm not sure how he's coped all these years, and I don't even know who else to contact," Ciara explained.

Caden showed little interest in these details.

In his view, Ciara simply needed more to occupy her time, and the boy provided some company.

He said, “Whatever you decide. If you can't get in touch with his family, I'll file a report with the police, and he can stay here.”

Ciara was more than happy to agree.

She then added thoughtfully, “But as much as I care for him, he's still someone else's child and could leave at any time. A great- grandchild from my own family would be more ideal."

Caden responded, "Then you'll need to be patient. I'm not even married yet."

Ciara urged, “Then you should put more effort into finding a wife."

Caden looked over at Alicia.

"If all goes well, next year. If not, then within three years."

Ciara teased, "Is that to find a wife or to give me a great- grandchild?"

“Of course, the latter.”

Alicia was taken aback.

Where did he find such confidence? She subtly stepped on his foot.

She had stepped on the same spot the night before, which was still tender, and now she hit it again. He couldn't stop himself from letting out a muffled groan.

Ciara was confused. "What's the matter?"

Caden, pretending nothing was wrong, continued peeling a crab.

"It pinched me."