The unwanted wife’s unexpected comeback
Chapter 54

Chapter 54:

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Alice didn't realize that she had given too much away. She had intended to provoke Caden by showing him the book, aware of his disdain for deceitful people. During their school years, Caden had been incredibly popular, attracting many admirers and inevitably creating rivalries.

Groups of girls often gathered around him, their laughter and chatter like birdsong. Known for his quick temper, Caden was unreservedly critical, and manipulative people were often the first to feel his wrath. His sharp comments made others wary of approaching him flirtatiously or openly.

Caden turned away dismissively. “I’m not interested in that cheap reading material.”

Alice, settling back into her seat with a smile, teased him: “You seemed interested. Perhaps you have developed a taste for deceitful types now?”

In a measured tone, Caden replied, “And who might you be trying to trick with those tactics?”

Alice replied: "Certainly not you."

"Well, that's just what I wanted to hear," he replied, his expression unreadable.

What an idiot!

As they approached the Yates mansion, Alice took the opportunity to do some quick reading. The author's skill was evident, presenting the material clearly and highlighting key points. During the short drive, Alice absorbed a great deal of information.

Arriving at the mansion, I noticed that the entrance was crowded and I was shocked.

“Why are there so many cars here?” His curiosity was piqued and he asked, “Is there any special event at the mansion today?”

Caden, ever aloof, replied, “Jerald was discharged today. “He came home this morning, and many relatives came to visit him.”

This caught Alicia off guard. She knew from Joshua that Jerald was recovering at the mansion, but she hadn't realized it was today.

The doors were open, welcoming a crowd of guests bearing extravagant gifts, with tables piled high with packages.

Alice glanced at the two books in her bag, pondering her next move.

Caden closed the car door behind them, his expression unreadable, neither welcoming nor dismissive.

Alicia approached Caden silently. “I didn't know your father was going to be discharged today, so I didn't bring any gifts. Did you manage to bring anything?”

Above them, the leaves rustled, casting mottled shadows across Alice's face, highlighting her features in a soft, unique way.

“I did it,” Caden confirmed.

Alice felt comforted. Caden, always proud and generous, seemed to have brought plenty of gifts.

Before she could voice her thoughts, Caden anticipated her needs. “Would you like to borrow a couple of boxes to keep up appearances?”

Alice laughed softly, appreciating his insight. “It's clear why you're Mr. Ward. You understand everything.”

Caden smiled weakly. “I may help, but my favors don't come for free.”

Alicia straightened up, reaching for her phone.

Caden quickly interjected, “It’s not money I’m interested in.”

If it's not money, then it must be something else. Caden looked ready to make an inappropriate request. Alicia braced herself, determined to embarrass herself rather than agree.

As he was about to enter the mansion, Caden spoke.

"I just ask you for a few words."

Alice paused, suspicious. “Are you being generous?”

"Sometimes," he replied indifferently.

"What exactly do you want me to tell you?" Alice asked.

Caden gave her a pointed look. “Miss Bennett, with your eloquence, can you not offer a kind word when you seek favor?”

Alice paused, momentarily puzzled. Was that there?

After a brief hesitation, he smiled. “Thank you for your help today, Mr. Ward. “I owe you a meal sometime.”

Caden responded with a nonchalant nod, rolling up his sleeves. “That’ll do.”

Relieved, Alicia turned back to the trunk. “Where are you headed?” Caden asked.

"I'm going to get the presents."

"They're not in the car. I'm taking them with me," he informed her.

Confused, Alice looked at him. “Do you have them with you?”

"Yes, I came with good will," Caden said.

Speechless, Alice followed him, her expression sour. “You have deceived me!”

Caden's tone remained relaxed. "Isn't goodwill itself a gift?"

"You were just playing with me," Alice replied.

Caden continued forward with long strides.

Alicia quickened her pace to keep up with him. She might not have brought any gifts, but she hoped they could share the embarrassment, especially if Caden had nothing either. However, his long strides forced her to jog to keep up with him.

Frustrated, she shouted, “Caden, slow down!”

Caden reached the front doors, his eyes scanning the room until they landed on Joshua, who was busy with the guests. He stopped suddenly.

Alicia, surprised by his sudden stop, collided with his back.

His bulk shook her and she felt a sharp pain in her forehead.

He grabbed his head and groaned in pain.

Caden looked over his shoulder at her exaggerated response. “Really? That dramatic? “It seems like ‘The Manipulators Trick’ was quite appropriate.”

Alice replied: "What nonsense! I'm actually hurt."

Caden joked: “Even that answer was perfect.”

Absurdity

Just then, a deep voice interrupted. “Alice.”

Regaining her composure, Alicia turned to see Joshua approaching.

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