Chapter 354:

Such establishments often had reputations for offering services beyond simple entertainment.

However, with Alicia there, Caden didn’t dwell on those thoughts.

After Alicia provided the reservation details, the receptionist smiled knowingly, sized Caden up, and led them inside.Belonging to .

Caden’s suspicion grew.

He tugged Alicia along as they followed.

“What’s going on?”

Alicia pulled her hand away and replied coldly, “You said you wanted to talk, right? I chose a quiet place for our discussion.”

Caden’s frown deepened.

“But you paid for more than just a private room.”

Alicia flashed him a mocking smile.

Caden’s thoughts raced.

“I’ve heard rumors about places like this.

I’ve never actually been to one.”

Alicia kept her expression neutral.

“Your personal life is not my concern.”

Caden tightened his grip on her hand and stood his ground.

He motioned for the attendant to leave them alone.

Once they were by themselves, he looked into Alicia’s eyes.

“If you don’t care about my private life, maybe you’ll listen to what my heart has to say.” Alicia didn’t resist.

He gently caressed her hand, looking down.

“I’ve taken care of Yolanda.

She won’t be back in Warrington.

I’m sorry for the frostbite—that was my fault.

I shouldn’t have made you apologize to her.

If you’re still angry, you can punish me however you want.”

Alicia sneered.

“Why should I punish you? It’s my own fault for being inadequate.

I owe her an apology.”

Her sense of inadequacy made her feel as if she could never win Caden’s affection.

Now, it seemed like everything was her burden to bear.

She pushed him away, her expression hardening.

“Caden, you’re a man of prominence.

I don’t want to upset you, so I’ll hold back my harsh words.

Keep some dignity for yourself.”

Caden’s gaze intensified.

“Alicia, I don’t want to hear that,” he said, his voice strained.

“I want only you.”

He pulled her into his embrace.

Then he murmured, “I can’t live without you.”

He truly couldn’t.

After their argument, Caden left Warrington, hoping that work would help him forget about her.

But it only made things worse.

Staying away from her only deepened the pain.

Alicia looked at him, her voice steady as she asked, “Caden, do you really love me?”

Caden nodded in response.

Alicia gently pushed him away, her eyes searching his for clarity.

“Do you love me, or is it just about the physical?” she asked.

Caden’s brow furrowed slightly.

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