?<strong>Chapter 965:</strong>


    Cade had been eagerly awaiting their return, hoping for some attention after their moment together. Unbeknownst to him, they hadn’t even nced at him before heading straight for the bathroom.


    Cade wagged his tail and followed, but they closed the door on him. His tail drooped, and he whimpered softly against the door.


    Feeling sorry for Cade, Alicia suggested, “Poor dog. Let’s take a break and y fetch with him.”


    Caden, his voice raspy, replied, “I’m even more pitiful than he is. Can’t you pamper me a bit?”


    “What grounds do you have topare yourself to a dog?”


    “Once I’m satisfied, I’ll take him out for a two-hour adventure to make up for it.” Alicia was left speechless.


    After their intimate moments, Caden refreshed himself with a shower and took Cade for a walk.


    Meanwhile, Alicia was dozing when her phone rang. She answered it groggily without checking the caller ID.


    Corey’s yful voice came through the line. “Are you still sleeping? It’s noon now.”


    Alicia perked up, her tone slightly cooler. “What’s up, Mr. Hampton?”


    Coreyughed. “Your voice sounds a bit rough. Has your man kept you in bed for three days straight, or is this just how you two celebrate?”


    Corey, known for his casual flings rather than serious rtionships, had worked with Alicia for two years, giving her a full view of his flirtatious tendencies. She responded lightly, “If you’re looking for pointers, you might want to consult Caden.”


    Corey replied, “I’m not ready to settle down yet. To me, marriage feels like a prison.”


    Then, shifting the conversation, he said, “Let’s grab lunch sometime.”


    Alicia declined promptly. “I’m busy.”


    There was lingering tension between Corey and Caden from a past argument when both had been intoxicated, and Alicia preferred not to stir up old conflicts.


    Corey changed the subject. “Gemma is in town.” He then passed the phone to Gemma.


    Gemma’s voice was low but sweet. “Hello, Alicia.” Alicia’s heart warmed, and she couldn’t suppress a smile. “Hi, Gemma!”


    Gemma added, “I’m so sorry I missed your wedding day. I was in the hospital at that time. I’m feeling better now, and I begged Corey to bring me to Warrington.” After a brief pause, Gemma asked, “I really miss you. Can we meet up for lunch?”


    Moved by Gemma’s words, Alicia agreed.


    Preferring not to entertain at home, Alicia made a reservation at a restaurant. She then instructed Caden to bring the dog back, and they set off for lunch.


    Caden had seen Corey once at the wedding, where he had given an unexpectedly extravagant gift, nearly rivaling Ciara’s generosity. This had made asting impression on Caden.


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