?<strong>Chapter 1026:</strong>


    “Yes, I threw it out,” Alicia nodded.


    She then headed toward the kitchen. “Don’t worry. It’s not too messy. I can still retrieve it for you.”


    Caden was stunned. Expecting a joke, he was taken aback when she actually returned with the breakfast. Expressionless, Caden said, “Thanks, but you really didn’t have to do that.”


    Alicia fought back a chuckle. “Go on and eat. It’s probably cleaner than bird droppings, right?”


    Caden gave her a piercing look.


    Alicia inwardly chuckled, recalling the earlier incident of him being sttered by bird droppings, though she kept herposure. “Just kidding. I didn’t throw it away. I thought you weren’t eating, so I put it in the microwave.”


    Caden looked down. The breakfast was perfectly arranged, and the warmth still lingered. Emotion washed over him as he ate with earnest intensity.


    Looking up from his meal, he realized Alicia had already left.


    Alicia arrived at the hospital with gifts for Gemma. Despite her weakness, Gemma’s spirits visibly lifted upon seeing Alicia, though her paleplexion was deeply moving.


    Corey had already informed Gemma about the artificial heart. Alicia was there to reassure her. “The surgery is scheduled in Warrington. I’ve secured the top cardiac specialist to oversee everything.”


    Gemma blinked back tears, her voice wavering. “Thank you, Alicia. I hate that I keep causing you problems.”


    Alicia tousled her hair affectionately, smiling gently. “What are you saying? You’re the brave one here.”


    Soon after, Pierre entered. “Ms. Bet, Mr. Ward is waiting outside for you.”


    Alicia had not anticipated Caden’s arrival. With the heart transnt ns moving forward, there was much to organize. Not wanting to dy, Alicia excused herself to join Caden. She found him just outside Gemma’s ward.


    Teasingly, Alicia asked, “Are you keeping such a close watch because you’re worried I might sneak off for a secret meeting with Corey?”


    Caden’s expression clouded over. He knew herment was sparked by frustration, but it still unsettled him. Trying to justify himself, he replied stiffly, “I’m not following you. I just came to visit Gemma.”


    Aliciaughed lightly. “Since when did you and Gemma be close?”


    “Is it so strange for me to show a sudden act of kindness?”


    “Then, by all means, go see her,” Alicia replied.


    With that, she made her way to the elevator.


    Caden followed closely behind. Alicia turned to him with a questioning look. “Weren’t you supposed to visit Gemma?”


    “I did,” Caden responded tly. “A quick look from the doorway was enough. I didn’t need to enter.”


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