Chapter 1109:
Caden’s expression hardened, a sharp glint appearing in his eyes. “So, Corey will be there at lunch too?”
Alicia dismissed his concern. “I don’t know. You should head to the office. Don’t worry about me.”
Caden was taken aback. When she desired intimacy, she softened her tone, yet now, she brushed him off with such indifference.
Alicia suggested several places that seemed ideal for a day out and let Gemma choose.
Gemma tried to appear normal so Alicia wouldn’t worry, but nothing seemed to interest her; she was untouched by anything around her.
Eventually, Gemma asked, “Alicia, can I just hang out at your place for a while?”
In recent months, Gemma had retreated into her shell, often seeking time alone. She didn’t want to live, but she couldn’t bring herself to end it. She needed to find a way to heal. She couldn’t bear the thought of leaving her brother to face the world alone.
Alicia was about to agree and ruffled Gemma’s hair when an advertisement popped up on her screen.
It caught Gemma’s attention.
Clicking on it, Alicia discovered it was for a newly opened equestrian club, something Cliff had started out of boredom.
“Do you want to go?” Alicia asked, remembering that Pierre had taught Gemma horse riding before he died.
Gemma’s eyes welled up with tears, and she nodded.
The last time Gemma fell off a horse, the memory still haunted Corey with lingering fear. But since she rarely expressed interest in anything, he wouldn’t deny her this. He insisted that Cliff personally accompany her on the ride.
However, Cliff, having been set up on blind dates for the past two years, was comically wary of women and refused.
Corey then asked Alicia to persuade Cliff.
Cliff glanced between Corey and Alicia. Gazing at Alicia, he inquired, “When did you and Corey become so close?”
Alicia, noting his misunderstanding, said, “Today is about taking care of Gemma. It’s not about Corey.”
“It doesn’t seem that way,” Cliff responded coolly. “Besides, Caden isn’t here today. I don’t want to be a wingman.”
Alicia was confused. A wingman for what? She wasn’t out here alone with Corey. How could a seasoned soldier like Cliff focus so much on physical strength yet lack discernment?
“If you’re unwilling, that’s fine. Are there any reliable instructors at the club?” Alicia asked.noveldrama
“No, it’s just opened. I’m the only one,” Cliff answered.
Alicia forced a smile. “Are you really going to let Corey down, Cliff?”
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