?<strong>Chapter 989:</strong>


    Gemma pouted, uncertain of the timeline but knowing she shouldn’t press She on family matters.


    Corey gently ruffled her hair, showing brotherly affection. “Gemma, other than me, no one else is worth your worry, understand?”


    Gemma nodded, epting his advice.


    The call had been answered by She’s son. With not enough money for medical expenses, She’s grandson had postponed his hospital treatment and passed away during surgery. Overwhelmed by grief, She had taken her own life.


    Caden and Alicia came down for breakfast and deliberately joined Gemma’s table.


    Gemma, looking downcast, ate in silence.


    Alicia noticed and asked, prompting Gemma to put down her knife and fork and lean in with a sigh.


    Caden, oblivious to the sensitivity of the situation, blurted out, “What’s troubling you? Is your brother dying?”


    Corey was left speechless.


    Tears welled up in Gemma’s eyes as she eximed, “What are you talking about?”


    Alicia shot Caden a stern look, silencing him.


    In an attempt to lighten the mood, Caden ordered a ss of ck tea to console Gemma.


    After shedding a few tears, Gemma, slightly parched, took a tentative sip.


    Caden watched Gemma with an amused smile, seemingly entertained by her dramatic response. He then turned to Pierre, asking abruptly, “What’s your annual sry?”


    Pierre responded honestly, “Mr. Ward, it’s three thousand.”


    “Is that all?” Caden remarked. “Not only do you protect Miss Hampton, but you also cook for her.”


    “Mr. Ward, that’s the standard sry, and Mr. Hampton treats me fairly,” Pierre said.


    Caden leaned back, tapping his finger on the table as he nced at Gemma and then shifted his gaze to Corey. Corey, meanwhile, was watching Gemma but asionally, his eyes strayed to Alicia, his expression a mix of emotions. Caden, aware of Corey’s underlying intentions, chuckled derisively.


    Corey caught the sound but didn’t avert his intense gaze, instead deepening it. “Alicia, do you ever regret marrying Caden?”


    Alicia maintained a stoic expression, her voice unwavering. “I just got married. Do you think I regret it?”


    Corey smirked, undeterred. “It’s been several months already.” He leaned in slightly, applying his trademark logic. “The excitement in a rtionship usually fizzles out after three months. By now, you should be tired of Caden.”


    Alicia’s gaze shifted to Gemma, her tone sharp yet restrained. “Don’t make me curse you in front of your sister.”


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