Seeing her stand her ground, Caden’s tone became more severe. “I had already reserved that necklace. Today’s auction was merely a formality. Did you really think you could outbid me?”

Alicia said coldly, “Why didn’t you increase your bid? You could have gone to 300 million dollars or even 1 billion dollars. Why did you stop?”

Caden stared at her lips.

They were so tender when he kissed them, but the words they formed were equally exasperating.

Alicia pulled away from him. Then she spoke with the auction staff to have Caden’s payment reversed back to his account.

She paid for it herself.

And then, she arranged for someone to retrieve the necklace.

Caden sat in the chair, maintaining a cold expression, exuding an air of superiority.

The man who had been trying to win Alicia’s favor observed the scene and felt secretly pleased.

Caden’s earlier actions had startled him, leading him to think that Caden and Alicia were a couple. But now, it appeared that, like him, Caden was just another suitor competing for Alicia’s attention.

Gathering his courage, he approached Alicia.

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“Ms. Bennett, if it’s alright with you, may I assist you in putting on the necklace?”

Upon hearing this, Caden glanced over, his gaze sharp as a blade.

Alicia could feel Caden’s gaze boring into the back of her head.

It was heavy and oppressive, and she was certain that if she looked back at him, she would see the clear threat and possessiveness in his eyes.

But she wasn’t about to indulge him in this behavior. Alicia wasn’t some juvenile girl; she had no interest in such childish games.

Since they were still in a public space, she maintained her composure and acted graciously toward the man, all while keeping her distance.

“I have no plans on wearing it at the moment. Please go ahead with your business. I have something to attend to myself. Good day.”

The man was persistent, however.

“Then please allow me to give you a lift, Miss Bennett.”

“That won’t be necessary,” she calmly replied. “I will be looking at some other jewelry with my friend.”

At that, the man finally took the hint.

He waved for one of the employees and had the girl escort Alicia out.