Chapter 968:
Corey and Caden stood together, each lost in their own thoughts, their true intentions veiled. They watched the women inside the store.
Toward the end of their shopping, Gemma appeared somewhat unwell, likely from fatigue. Trying not to worry Alicia, she maintained a cheerful demeanor.
Corey noticed Gemma’s discomfort right away and instructed Pierre Lewis, the bodyguard beside him, “Check if Gemma feels unwell.”
Pierre quickly entered the store.
Corey’s expression was etched with concern, his eyes fixed on Gemma.
Caden said casually, “The last time I saw your sister, she didn’t seem so fragile.”
Corey gave him a wary look. “Caden, this is none of your business.”
Caden chuckled, a hint of defiance in his eyes. “I’m not interested in your sister. I’m just curious why she seems so different without Alicia around. Is it because my machine isn’t sufficient for you, or…?”
Caden suspected there was another issue with Gemma. He didn’t finish his sentence, though. Despite his confidence, he refrained from striking without complete certainty.
Corey clenched his fists, the silent rivalry between the two men simmering.
Caden crossed his arms and warned in a low voice, audible only to Corey, “If you have any designs on Alicia, I won’t spare Gemma.”
Corey stood still, his expression unreadable. His plans, known only to himself, had been formed but shattered countless times.
The constant tug-of-war between risk and conscience had long tormented him. He hardly took Caden’s warning seriously.
Inside the store, Alicia noticed Gemma’s discomfort and accompanied her to a rest area. Corey’s eyes turned colder. “I’m not so vile as to act on a soon-to-be mother.”
Gemma, fearing further worry for both Alicia and Corey, decided to return to the hotel early. Aware that her condition couldn’t tolerate prolonged outings, she felt it was the best choice.
As they said their goodbyes, Gemma held Alicia’s hand, her eyes glistening. “I’ll visit again after your baby is born, Alicia.”
Alicia nodded, smiling as she gently wiped the tears from Gemma’s eyes. “Everything will be alright.”
Gemma bit her lip. “Can I be the baby’s godmother then?”
“Of course.”
Gemma smiled faintly, her cheeks pale, her eyes a rosy hue, evoking a sense of pity. Watching their car drive away, Alicia’s calm facade crumbled, and her eyes brimmed with sadness.
Alicia got into the car distractedly, and Caden fastened her seatbelt, meeting her eyes with concern. “Did you notice anything?” he asked.
Alicia was jolted back to the moment. “Did you notice it?”
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