Filed to story: When His Wife Can’t Forgive
“I’ll go mingle with the elders. Enjoy yourselves,” Cliff said before making a hasty exit.
Caden took his place beside Alicia.
With a subtle gesture, he served her a portion of her favorite dish.
“Ms. Bennett, if I impress you tonight, do I get a little reward?” he asked, a playful tone lacing his words. He had always been aware of Alicia’s appeal, but he hadn’t realized just how much she captivated those around her.
With danger lurking nearby, he felt the need to stay vigilant.
He leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. “Could you give me a title and let everyone know we’re dating?”
While talking with Madison, Caden had felt a strong impulse to announce that Alicia was dating him.
However, he knew that doing so would surely upset Alicia.
He hadn’t yet won her over, and declaring their relationship to others at this point would be inconsiderate.
Thus, he restrained himself.
Now, speaking in a subdued whisper, Caden glanced at Alicia.
Across the table, Gerry tried to eavesdrop but couldn’t make out Caden’s words. Frustrated, he said, “Could you two speak a little louder?”
Caden dropped his soft tone and gave Gerry a cold look.
“Why don’t you sit between us?”
Gerry responded confidently, “Sure, why not?”
Alicia, unimpressed, discarded the food Caden had chosen for her and suggested to Gerry, “Mr. Hopkins, let’s switch places.”
Gerry smirked at Caden before moving to swap seats with Alicia.
He would go to great lengths to help a friend in need, but when there was drama, he always enjoyed being front and center, watching the show unfold.
Caden kept a poker face, casually sipping his drink.
Gerry, relishing the situation, commented, “When Alicia was sitting by Cliff earlier, she didn’t seem this upset. It seems she’s annoyed by you.”
Caden didn’t let it bother him.
“A woman’s small temper tantrums only add to her charm,” he replied with a shrug.
Gerry rested his chin on his hand. “And what good does that do? You need to win her over. It’s been a while. Haven’t you tried to reconcile?”
Despite his teasing, Gerry felt a twinge of sympathy for Caden after seeing his downcast demeanor.
He genuinely wanted to support him.
Caden replied in a flat tone, “Fixing things takes time. I shouldn’t rush it. I know what I’m doing.”
Gerry looked doubtful. “Do you really know how to win her over?”
“Will you win the woman back?”
“Yes,” Caden replied with assurance.
Gerry’s face showed even greater skepticism.
Caden remained silent for a moment, taking a bite of his food.
Afterward, his confidence wavered. “I’m still learning,” he admitted.
Gerry stifled a smile. “There’s no shame in that. Going after the one you love and being willing to learn is admirable.”
Without Alicia nearby, Caden lost his appetite and set his fork down.
“Are you planning to make a movie this year?”
Gerry, sounding less enthusiastic, replied, “I want to, but the rights to the novel I’m interested in aren’t available. Everything else is ready; I just need the author’s approval. Once I get that, I’ll have Alicia write the theme song. It’ll be a hit for sure.”
Caden immediately responded, “Leave that to me. In return, I need you to do me a favor.”
Gerry quickly sat up, alert.
“Anything you need, just let me know!”
The birthday party carried on into the evening.
Alicia stayed behind to continue enjoying the festivities with Madison.
Though it had been a while since she played cards, Alicia still remembered the tricks Caden had taught her. She was skilled at losing intentionally without making it obvious.
At the table of four, two were elders, so she let them win. In doing so, she also allowed the man across from her to…
He chuckled softly.
Alicia glanced at him. He had a refined, clean-cut appearance and carried himself with an air of distinction. He was unfamiliar to her; they had never crossed paths in business.
His laugh was good-natured, and when he met Alicia’s gaze, his eyes were kind.
“Is something the matter? Do you have a question for me, Ms. Bennett?” he asked politely.
Alicia felt as though he could see through her thoughts.
She shook her head. “No, not at all.”
The man smiled. “I wasn’t laughing at you. It’s just that this is quite the coincidence.”
Alicia asked curiously, “What coincidence?”
“Your style of playing cards is quite similar to a method a friend taught me. Maybe we had the same mentor.”
Alicia was speechless. Impossible. Could he have also been taught how to cheat by Caden?
After the card game concluded, the man handed her his business card. “Ms. Bennett, I’ve heard quite a bit about you.”
Alicia paused for a moment when she read the name. The man was Blake Langstaff.
She smiled, “The famed yet low-key artist, Mr. Langstaff?”
Blake humbly replied, “You’re too kind, Ms. Bennett. I just dabble in painting to occupy my time.”
Alicia felt a slight flush of embarrassment. It was quite a coincidence; she had prepared a painting as a gift for Madison today. It was Blake’s work.
He must have recognized it, which explained why he seemed so familiar with her. She had purchased the painting at a high price and had never met Blake previously. Seeing him now, she noted not only his artistic talent but also his striking good looks.
He was handsome and youthful.
Engaging in conversation with such an attractive individual made Alicia feel pleasantly flattered.
When Caden returned after fetching an item, he walked into this striking scene. His expression immediately darkened.
The two were conversing with smiles, keeping a respectful distance, apparently discussing some business matters.
Gerry approached with a drink in hand. “Another one?”
Caden’s face remained stoic. “Does that man look familiar to you?”
Gerry scrutinized Blake more closely. “He doesn’t ring a bell. I’d definitely remember someone that striking. Why? Is he a friend of yours?”
Caden had indeed seen Blake before. But it had been quite some time, and he struggled to recall exactly who Blake was.
Gerry noticed Caden’s sour expression. “You’re jealous, aren’t you? Want me to split them up?”
Caden felt a surge of bitterness.
“They’re discussing business. What is there to be jealous about? I’m not that petty.” He glanced at Blake. “He doesn’t even come close to looking as good as me. Alicia wouldn’t be interested in him.”
Gerry shot another look at the man across the table.
It was clear that the man’s interest in Alicia was more about appreciation than any romantic sentiment. This was likely why Alicia could engage in such casual conversation with him, discussing everything from trivialities to more meaningful topics.
Yet, despite Caden’s earlier words, his attention remained fixed on the two of them.
Alicia sensed his gaze and quickly turned to him. Their eyes locked for a brief moment.
At the same time, Blake noticed Caden as well, his recognition sparking an immediate response. “Mr. Ward,” Blake greeted, a smile on his face.
Alicia pressed her lips together, curiosity piqued. “You know him?”
“More than just an acquaintance,” Blake replied, sipping his champagne with a hint of reserve. “Though he may not recall me. I’ll make it a point to say hello next time.”
As he placed his glass down, his gaze met Caden’s, and an immediate, unspoken tension filled the air, thick enough to cut.
Alicia averted her eyes, feeling the weight of the moment. “Let’s find a different spot to sit and talk.”
Blake picked up on the tension but chose not to address it. “Alright.” They moved away.
Caden was left with a deepening frown, his fingers tightening around the stem of his wine glass.
Gerry rolled his sleeves up, a knowing look in his eyes. “That doesn’t sit well with you, does it? Relax, I’ve got this.”