Yolanda straightened her posture, fully aware that Caden didn’t like her. She knew pressing her luck would only push him further away. She wrapped her arms tightly around her chest, feigning a chill.

Caden spoke in a flat tone. “If you’re cold, we should head back.”

However, Yolanda smiled at him and replied, “Let’s stay a little longer; the fireworks will start soon.”

The mention of “fireworks” sparked something in Caden. Fireworks were about to begin?

Alicia always enjoyed watching fireworks, and if he had known, he would have invited her to join. But fireworks could be viewed from many places. Missing this one wasn’t a major loss.

Noticing that Yolanda was shivering, Caden removed his coat and placed it over her shoulders. She whispered softly, “Thank you, Caden.”

“If you genuinely want to thank me, head back early. I don’t want any trouble,” he said, his voice flat. “Keep the coat, and just toss it when you reach the hospital.”

Caden pulled out his phone and opened the chat with Alicia.

Even though Alicia hadn’t admitted it, he sensed that she liked the gemstone.

“I already placed the order. It will arrive next month.”

Suddenly, Alicia’s phone rang.

He stared at the screen in a daze.

With trembling fingers, she texted him, “Where are you?”

Caden answered, “I’m at Averibon. Do you miss me?”

Alicia felt a sharp ache in her heart. It was as if someone had ripped a hole in her chest, leaving her trembling with anguish.

How could he play with her emotions while holding Yolanda close?

gⱯlnσν𝓮ℓs．c𝗈𝗺, a world of tales

She stepped back, leaning weakly against the wall.

“Are you by yourself in Averibon?” she asked.

Caden responded, “What’s wrong?”

His vague response indicated that he didn’t want to reveal the truth.

Alicia glanced at his message and smirked sarcastically. Noticing how much time Caden spent on his phone, Yolanda worried that it was Alicia trying to reach him.

She steeled herself and bit her tongue.

Pain shot through her as blood filled her mouth.

She let out a soft groan as her lips lost their color.

Caden looked up at her.

“What’s the matter?” he asked.

She forced a smile. “It’s nothing, Caden…” she mumbled as she wiped the corner of her mouth.

A streak of blood appeared on the back of her hand almost immediately.

Caden frowned and said, “Is that blood again?”

Yolanda coughed, clearly flustered.

Then, she collapsed weakly into his arms.