Chapter: 822

Caden wasn't taken aback by that revelation.

During dinner, Corey cast furtive glances at Alicia more than once.

His gaze lacked the warmth of genuine emotion or affection; he wasn't the type to ogle women. Therefore, looking too many times raised suspicions.

Buying the painting in Alicia's gallery had indeed been just a pretext. Deep down, it served another purpose.

Caden concealed his doubts and asked casually, "Was his investigation that obvious?"

“He mentioned my mother's painting when we met today."

Donna had only one posthumous work.

She had stored it in a bank vault, and later, Joshua had discreetly sold it.

Only a handful of people knew it had become a rare gem in Alicia's collection.

Yet Corey had said it as if it were nothing.

Wasn't that a clear sign of prior investigation?

Alicia added, “I can't shake this strange feeling. He seems to dislike us; his smile felt so insincere."

Caden responded, “I snatched a business deal right out from under him. If he had any fondness for me, that would be the real issue."

Alicia exclaimed, "Do you still have to fight tooth and nail for business?"

"I'm quite charming, you know. They would rather offend Corey than miss a chance to work with me," Caden declared, confidence radiating from him, almost bordering on arrogance. "I can't just turn down money."

Alicia burst out laughing, her tension dissipating like morning mist under the sun.

After a moment, she asked, “Caden, do you think Corey likes me?"

Caden looked at her.

She was stunning with almond-shaped eyes that were brimming with emotion.

Her lips, a vibrant shade of red, framed a dazzling smile, revealing pearly white teeth that were irresistibly alluring.

Her cheeks, smooth and fair, beckoned to him, making him want to keep her hidden away from the world's prying eyes.

With a casual shrug, Caden replied, “With such ordinary looks, how can you even ask that?"

Instead of feeling insulted, Alicia Laughed heartily.

She knew all too well that this man couldn't resist her charm.

Why would he pretend otherwise?

Alicia was simply curious. “In the real world, business competition can be ruthless, with unspoken rules lurking around every corner. If it ever came down to it, would you use me as a bargaining chip against Corey?"

Caden clicked his tongue in annoyance. “I warned you about watching those ridiculous movies. You didn't listen, and now your imagination is running wild."

Alicia pressed further, “Just answer me, please?"

"Would Corey be interested if I put up the offer?"

Alicia raised an eyebrow, a playful glint in her eye as she teased, "So you are saying you would be willing to part with me?"