Chapter 368:


    As they stepped into the hall, Caden spotted Aliciaughing and engaging with a group of young people as they made their way to the dining table.


    For a brief moment, their eyes locked.


    Alicia skillfullyposed herself, maintaining a polite smile on her face.


    Caden remainedposed as well, passing his jacket to a nearby attendant.


    A prominent brown scar on his partially exposed arm caught Alicia’s attention.


    Alicia stood frozen, momentarily taken aback.


    The scar shed before her eyes for just an instant.


    As Caden pulled back his hand, he rolled down his sleeve and continued chatting with Cliff as they walked away.


    Alicia felt a heaviness settle in her chest.


    It was a burn mark, unmistakably located right there.


    It was clearly a result of Shelia’s acid.


    He had assured her he was fine back then.


    But considering he had used his arm to protect himself from the acid, how could he truly be fine?


    “Ms.


    Bet.”


    Alicia’s reverie was broken by a voice.


    She nced up to see who was calling her.


    “Mrs.


    Hopkins,” she greeted with a smile.


    Madison Hopkins, Gerry’s mother, who held a fondness for her, replied warmly, “Most of the guests here are friends and rtives of our family, so you may not know many of them.


    I noticed you seemfortable with Gerry and the others.


    Why not join their table?”


    Alicia nodded in agreement.


    “Alright, Mrs.


    Hopkins.” Sitting among familiar faces would certainly feel morefortable.


    Alicia did not dwell on it for long.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Madison, with a warm smile, guided her over while Gerry pulled out a chair, saying, “This way, Alicia.”


    But to Alicia’s surprise, Madison settled her beside Cliff.


    “Cliff, be sure to look after Ms.


    Bet.


    It’s her first time here,” Madison instructed.


    Cliff’s eyes widened in realization.


    He understood immediately what Madison had in mind and protested, “Mom, this is not quite right.” Madison shot a sharp re at Cliff.


    Gerry chimed in, “Why does Alicia have to sit there? She’s not really acquainted with Cliff, but she’sfortable with me.”


    In response, Madison yfully nudged him with her foot.


    “Just eat your food!”


    With that, she turned back to Alicia, offering a bright smile before moving on to attend to other guests.


    Alicia felt a wave of difort wash over her.


    She was aware that Cliff was under pressure to settle down, but she had not anticipated Madison would see her as a potential match.


    What should she do now? Stay put or make a hasty exit? Cliff sat stiffly, a frown etched on his face, as if he were enduring a sentence.


    He had never imagined Madison would want to pair him with Alicia, Caden’s significant other.


    He felt trapped!


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