Alicia sneered in response. “I used to be a hopeless case, but I’ve learned from my mistakes. Even a fool figures things out eventually.”

Caden replied, “It seems you’ve taken to insulting yourself when you’re upset, haven’t you?”

Alicia found herself at a loss for words.

Irritated, she shot back, “I’m simply making a comparison.”

At that moment, the doctor from earlier approached with a friendly smile. He glanced at Alicia and gestured to the gift box he held.

“Ms. Bennett, did you send this?”

Alicia returned the smile, feeling a sense of warmth.

“It’s Christmas Eve, and I wanted to express my gratitude for everything you’ve done for Lucky. I picked up some small gifts for your wife and children. I hope they enjoy them.”

“That’s incredibly thoughtful of you. Thank you, Ms. Bennett,” the doctor said.

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As the evening wore on, the doctor waved goodbye. “I need to head out. My wife and kids are waiting for me at home.”

Alicia waved back.

Caden stood with one hand in his pocket, his expression neutral as he remarked, “Being a doctor has its advantages. They get gifts.”

Alicia shot him a quick glance.

It was clear to her that he was being sarcastic.

Choosing to ignore him, she turned and walked away.

Lucky was growing quickly, weighing nearly ten pounds now. Caden thought about the injury on Alicia’s hand and reached out to take Lucky.

“I’ll hold him,” he said.

Alicia stepped aside, avoiding him. “He doesn’t like you.”

As soon as she said this, Lucky wagged his tail and eagerly rubbed against Caden’s hand.

Caden raised an eyebrow in surprise. “He doesn’t like me? Clearly, he loves me.”

Alicia found herself at a loss for words.

“Lucky, you ungrateful little brat!” she muttered inwardly.

Typically, Caden would push Lucky away whenever he saw him. He never bothered to bathe or take care of the dog. During their more intimate moments in the living room, Caden would lock Lucky out on the balcony. He only showed any affection when he felt bored, occasionally giving the dog a quick pat.

Despite this neglect, Lucky remained incredibly clingy toward Caden.

Injured and in pain, Lucky still struggled to lean toward Caden, prompting Alicia to feel a surge of compassion.

She gently released him.

Caden smiled knowingly.