?<strong>Chapter 936:</strong>


    Alicia frowned, feeling an odd mix of emotions. “Will your grandma recover?” she asked hesitantly.


    “She should. It’ll take about six months. She’s stable but very weak. Stress is thest thing she needs.”


    Feeling slightly awkward at his uncharacteristic politeness, Alicia said, “Then we’ll just have to y it by ear.”


    Caden nodded. “I’ll be staying at Joy Mansion for now. My grandma will definitely keep a close eye on us. We need to act the part to avoid any suspicions—at least when she’s around.”


    Alicia’s brows furrowed. “What exactly do you mean by ‘act the part?''”


    Her confused expression brought a small, amused smile to Caden’s face. “We just need to act like a couple in front of others. That way, she won’t hear any rumors or start worrying. Don’t worry—I’ll respect your boundaries. Most of the time, you’ll be free to do as you please. I’ll only need your cooperation at Joy Mansion.”


    Alicia narrowed her eyes, suspicion written all over her face.


    Caden’s voice remained calm as he added, “Don’t overthink it. Cliff reminded me today that feelings can’t be forced. I thought it was good advice, so I’ve decided to give you some space.”


    Alicia stared at him, speechless.


    Caden gave her a considerate look. “If you’re ufortable, I’ll exin everything to my grandma. I don’t want to pressure you.”


    Startled, Alicia grabbed his arm. “What are you doing? If you tell her now, it’ll only upset her!” Caden held her gaze, saying nothing.


    After a moment, Alicia sighed. “Fine. For your grandma’s sake, I’ll go along with it. Acting isn’t a big deal.” Caden nodded, choosing his words carefully. “It’ste. Let’s head back to our room and get some rest.” Without waiting for her reply, he turned and walked away.


    Alicia watched him leave and muttered, “What theatrics.”


    In the master bedroom, there was only one bed.


    Caden offered to sleep on the sofa.


    Alicia watched as he set up a makeshift bed, her eyes filled with curiosity. She couldn’t figure out what had gotten into him.


    When Caden was done, he nced at her. “What?”


    Alicia crossed her arms, speaking bluntly. “We’ve known each other for so long. Do you really need to put on this?”


    Caden smirked. “Isn’t this what you wanted? Keeping my distance is better than you rejecting me.”


    Alicia didn’t respond, feeling oddly at a loss for words. Caden tugged at the cor of his shirt and casually pulled off his loungewear, revealing his toned upper body. Alicia’s eyes involuntarily lingered for a moment before she quickly looked away.


    Caden raised a brow, teasing, “Why don’t you admit you’re tempted?”


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