Alicia felt like she had chosen the worst possible moment to walk in.

It was her first time seeing Caden with another woman. What did their agreement say again? They would not meddle in each other’s personal lives. Their business was finished, and they weren’t in a relationship.

So, she shouldn’t get involved, right?

Alicia tried to reassure herself as she looked for a place to sit.

Despite this, she found herself stealing glances toward the office. She couldn’t help but wonder what was happening inside. The more she thought about it, the more uncomfortable she felt.

In the office, Hank led the woman to Caden’s desk. “Mr. Ward, she has arrived.”

Caden looked up, his frown immediately deepening.

“I asked for a bodyguard. What the hell is this?”

Even though his tone was harsh, the woman remained unfazed and indifferent. She was undeniably beautiful but carried an intimidating presence.

Hank leaned in and whispered, “I felt the same when I met her, but…” He cleared his throat, lowering his voice even more. “She’s bigger in size than you.”

Caden was taken aback. He glanced again at the woman before asking, “A man?”

Hank shook his head. “No, I was referring to her muscle mass.”

Caden was speechless.

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Hank prompted the woman to demonstrate her capabilities. She removed her coat, revealing muscles that could rival any bodybuilding champion. She looked like a bodybuilder in plain clothes.

Her appearance was strikingly different with her coat on versus off.

Caden’s demeanor softened. “Please, put your coat back on.”

He looked over her file, lingering briefly on her name.

“Jasmine.”

Jasmine responded, “Yes, Mr. Ward.” Caden paused briefly. “Alright.”

Her name, face, and physique seemed to belong to three different people. Yet, none of that mattered. The priority was her ability to safeguard Ciara. After Caden’s approval, Hank escorted Jasmine out.

Ciara was residing at Joy Mansion, and Jasmine would begin her duties the following day, providing round-the-clock security for Ciara, except during her sleeping hours.

As they walked out, Jasmine quickly noticed Alicia. Alicia was sitting quietly, her long hair flowing softly, her striking profile capturing attention. Hank also noticed Alicia following Jasmine’s glance and was briefly taken aback.

Jasmine said, “I’ll drive myself there. You can tell Mr. Ward he has a guest.”

Hank had initially intended to ignore Alicia, as Caden had not openly acknowledged her, and he preferred Jasmine to remain unaware of any connection between Caden and Alicia. However, judging by Jasmine’s expression, he sensed she might already know more than he thought.

“Do you know her?” Hank asked.

Jasmine replied, “I’m aware of who she is.”

“Part of a bodyguard’s role is to recognize anyone of note.”

Hank looked impressed. “Go ahead. Mr. Ward is waiting,” Jasmine said before leaving.

Instead of notifying Caden, Hank approached Alicia directly.

“Ms. Bennett, Mr. Ward is available now. I can take you to see him.”

Alicia was taken aback. “Already?”

Hank looked confused. “What do you mean?”

Alicia scratched her forehead before saying, “I saw you escort a woman inside. Did Caden wrap things up that quickly?”

Hank’s face shifted suddenly. “You’ve misunderstood. She’s a bodyguard Mr. Ward hired for Mrs. Ward. There’s nothing personal between her and Mr. Ward.”

He was quietly relieved.

He was thankful that Alicia had brought it up; a misunderstanding could have caused major issues. If Caden lost control, he would be the one facing the consequences.

After leading Alicia to the office, Hank quickly exited.

Alicia observed Caden. His demeanor in the office was completely different from how he was at home. Here, he was all business, more rigid than even his suit.

Upon noticing her, Caden continued signing documents without pausing and bluntly asked, “Why are you here?”

Alicia placed the notes she had prepared on his desk and explained her reason for being there.

Caden glanced over the notes and quickly made his decision. “I’ll enhance a batch of products and release them as a limited edition.”

Alicia agreed internally. The enhanced version would likely sell at a higher price, with customization adding emotional value for the consumers. But then she remembered to ask, “Shouldn’t you discuss this plan with the others?”

“It’s not expensive,” Caden replied.

Alicia nodded. She had forgotten just how much money he had at his disposal.

Seeing Caden immersed in his work, Alicia didn’t want to interrupt further. She started to head out.

Caden looked up. “Where are you going?”

Alicia replied, “It’s still early. I’m going to the mall to pick up a few things.”

He paused for a moment, then began to gather his things. “Wait for me.”

Alicia looked confused. “You’re leaving work now? Isn’t it a bit early?”

Caden gave a mocking smile. “What good would it do you if I worked myself to death?”

Alicia was momentarily at a loss for words. Then, she said boldly, “Quite a bit, especially if you’ve included me in your will.”

This time, Caden was the one left speechless.

He switched off the office lights and walked out with her.

Alicia asked, “Are you sure about coming with me? Aren’t you concerned about your family seeing us together?”

“My grandmother respects my privacy. She won’t meddle as long as I don’t introduce anyone as my girlfriend publicly.”

Alicia felt a pang of envy. Ciara was as kind as her own mother.

She asked, “Is Ciara planning to stay here permanently?”

“It depends on her mood.”

“Then you’ll have company for Christmas.” Alicia couldn’t hide her satisfaction.

Caden looked at her. “You’re welcome to come over.”

Alicia was taken aback, feeling a bit shy.

Then Caden added, “That way, I won’t need to hire an extra chef.”

Alicia was left speechless.