Randolph paused, caught off guard by the comment. “Is that all there is to it? Just because she’s your former sister-in-law?”

Caden’s smile widened slightly. “What else could it be?”

Randolph stayed silent for a moment, searching for a response. Finally, he let out a small laugh. “Fair enough. She’s like family to you, I suppose.”

To Randolph, it never seemed like Caden would get involved with his sister-in-law. Once he was certain that Caden’s interest in Alicia was nothing more than polite concern, he felt a sense of relief wash over him. Slowly, he guided the conversation back to business matters.

Although Randolph consistently made a good profit, opportunities for significant collaborations with someone like Caden didn’t come around often. After all, who would ever complain about making more money?

Randolph leaned in, adopting a tone filled with excessive admiration as he tried to draw Caden into the deal. Caden listened quietly for a while, then looked over at Randolph.

“What do you need, Mr. Ward?” Randolph asked.

Caden responded casually, “I think I’d like some hangover soup right now.”

Randolph found himself at a loss for words. He held back his frustration and brought the soup while looking visibly displeased. Caden took a sip and then said, “Joshua’s been handling your bank dealings, hasn’t he?”

Randolph looked away for a moment. “In business, it’s always wise to have as many valuable clients as possible,” he stated. “When it comes to generosity, he can’t quite compare to you, Mr. Ward.”

Caden took another sip from the bowl. Randolph leaned forward and asked, “Mr. Ward, what do you say? I’m aware that three hundred million is just a small amount for you.”

Caden pressed his lips together. “The soup is too sweet. Tell your maid to use less honey.”

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Randolph didn’t know what to say to that. “Is Caden toying with me?” he wondered.

Caden placed the bowl down. “Take it easy. Joshua’s been doing well recently. I’ll make sure he helps you out more if the opportunity arises.”

Randolph gave him a polite smile. “There’s no need to trouble yourself, Mr. Ward. If I need anything, I can always reach Joshua directly. He wouldn’t refuse.”

Caden responded with a faint smile, “Is that so?” Clearly, Randolph had some leverage over Joshua. After wrapping up their business discussion, Caden glanced out the window. Several socialites were gathered outside, basking in the afternoon sun. They were deep in conversation. The area radiated elegance and luxury, but Alicia was nowhere in sight.

Meanwhile, Alicia stepped out of the restroom, only to hear a sudden scream. She spun around to see where the noise had come from. Ted stood there, holding a large water gun, spraying it in her direction.

Ted had been waiting for the perfect moment and managed to catch her off guard, leaving her no chance to react. Water splashed all over her, soaking her instantly. Her silk dress clung tightly to her body the moment it got wet. Alicia felt exposed and humiliated.

Ted laughed loudly, waving the water gun and mocking her. “Look at you, ugly duckling! Everyone can see you!”

Alicia’s expression hardened. Ignoring the water dripping down her body, she grabbed the hem of her dress and looked for something to defend herself with. She wasn’t going to let this brat get away with it. Realizing what she was about to do, Ted bolted.

Even as he moved, he kept taunting, “Come on, ugly lady! Catch me if you can!”

With longer strides, Alicia quickly gained on him. Ted struggled to escape, but she grabbed his curly hair and gave him a harsh lesson. He was surprised at how much stronger she was than him and that he had no chance of escaping. Overcome with fear, he burst into tears.

Alicia let him go, glaring down at him. “You’re lucky you’re a kid. Try that again, and next time it won’t be so easy.”

Ted cried out in anger, “You witch! How dare you hit me? I’ll get my mom to deal with you!”

Alicia’s gaze hardened, and she nearly lashed out. But before she could, a maid hurried over.

“Ms. Bennett, you should change before you catch a cold,” the maid suggested. “Why don’t you go inside and change your clothes?”

As Ted ran off, Alicia decided to let it go for now. “Is this how all members of the Reyes family behave?” she muttered while wringing out her soaked dress. Ted might have been just a child, but his foul language was already far too much.

The maid remained silent and gently guided Alicia toward a small building on the other side of the yard. It was a bit of a walk, but since it was still on the property, Alicia didn’t question it too much.

“Why do I have to change here?” she asked, her curiosity piqued.

The maid offered a polite smile. “Ms. Bennett, your clothes are soaked. You probably wouldn’t want the male security guards to catch sight of you like this. It’s closer here, and you can change quickly before heading back.”

She opened the door and handed Alicia a fresh set of clothes. Alicia glanced down and realized her dress had become almost see-through, revealing her undergarments. It was hardly appropriate.

Once the maid stepped out, she quietly closed the door behind her. Alicia quickly changed, hanging her damp dress in a ventilated spot to dry.

Just outside, a small pond reflected the afternoon light. The water was pristine, clear, and calm, surrounded by neatly maintained flowers. A few delicate blossoms swayed gently in the breeze, like dancers moving to a soft rhythm. Alicia took a deep breath, allowing the fresh air to fill her lungs. It felt good to step away from the chaos and enjoy a brief moment of peace.

Sadly, peace was always fleeting.

As she rested with her eyes closed, she heard someone entering the room. She assumed it was the maid, but instead, it was Ted. This time, he wasn’t alone. A group of children from wealthy families had joined him, each one looking ready for mischief.

Without warning, Ted aimed his water gun directly at her, spraying her face and hitting her eyes. Her vision blurred, and she nearly stumbled. Before she could react, Ted grabbed a stick he had brought along and struck her with full force.