The unwanted wife’s unexpected comeback

Chapter 331:

When she loved Caden, she did so because of his past, tirelessly trying to help him escape his shadows.

Yet, he had overlooked something crucial.

She, too, had been overshadowed by darkness.

She had come this far on her own, without anyone ever truly caring for or cherishing her.

That explained her tender nature.

She believed that sincerity alone would earn her the love she longed for.

All she desired was a bit of attention and affection.

He had offered her wealth, influence, jewels, and recognition, but not love.

Regret consumed Caden.

He felt choked.

He gasped for breath, as if he were a fish out of water.

His feelings pulled at him, igniting a persistent ache in his chest.

Driven by an urgent need, he grabbed his phone and called Alicia.

She didn’t ignore him.

She picked up.

For a few seconds after connecting, neither spoke.

Alicia’s soft voice finally cut through the silence.

She asked, “Did you get my gift?”

When he heard her voice, Caden felt a sudden calm.

“I did,” he answered, his voice rough.

Alicia kept her words brief.

With sincerity, she said, “Happy Christmas, Caden.”

Caden’s hands shook.

She knew exactly how to offer love and inflict pain.

He always knew how to strike where it hurt the most.

He had braced himself for any reaction she might have—he imagined she would cry, create a scene, or even curse him.

But he never expected the simple words, “Happy Christmas.”

His throat went dry.

“You hate me now, don’t you?”

Alicia responded, “Hate? I never hated you, except when I was nine.”

Caden was caught off guard.

Nine?

When Alicia was nine, Caden was mourning his mother’s death and had taken a year off from school.

Eventually, to avoid sinking deeper into grief, he forced himself to recover and transferred to her school.

That year, their lives became closely intertwined.

He was dark and withdrawn from the loss of his closest family, while Alicia, cherished by her parents, was vibrant and full of life, like a pearl.

He was jealous and resentful.

He used his exceptional intelligence to take the top position, outsmarting her at every turn.

“I’m sorry,” Caden murmured.

Alicia replied flatly, “Too late.”

Caden swallowed hard and remained silent.

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