Rich Radiant and Over Him (Alicia and Vincent) novel Chapter 40

Vincent's expression darkened, brows drawn together in irritation. "Alicia, just keep your mouth shut."

Alicia let out a mocking laugh but said nothing more.

Mina's eyes were rimmed red as she turned to Vincent, clearly trying to pressure him. "Vin, don't be so harsh with Alicia. She's been with you for four years, and she's helped look after you all that time… and me, too."

Alicia found the whole thing laughable. She turned away, refusing to look at either of them.

Mina, still teary, pressed on. "Vin, if you're really going to marry me… you should at least make things right with her."

Vincent nodded stiffly. "Fine…"

He glanced at Alicia, his voice cold. "Alicia, Mina's always been a kind person. You shouldn't have smeared her reputation online."

Alicia acted as if she hadn't heard him, her gaze fixed on the window.

Since when did Vincent's voice sound so grating? Kind? What a joke.

"Vin, Alicia isn't getting any younger," Mina added, her tone thick with implication. "I want to see my little assistant settled before I marry you. Otherwise… I'll always feel guilty."

Alicia dug her nails into her palm, her breath coming fast and shallow.

So this was it—Mina was trying to push Vincent into marrying her off as soon as possible.

"Miss Holloway, my love life is none of your business. Please, both of you, leave." Alicia pointed furiously at the door.

Mina, still teary-eyed, looked pleadingly at Vincent. "Vin… let's put off our wedding for now. Once Alicia forgives me and is happily married, then we can talk about getting married ourselves."

Vincent knew exactly what Mina was doing. She wanted him to make a decision—a show of loyalty, a way to clean up his so-called mess before their marriage.

After a long, heavy silence, Vincent finally turned to Alicia. "I'll help you find a promising young man at the company. You can settle down here in Seaview City."

"I'll give you an apartment as part of your settlement," he added.

Alicia glared at him, her breathing ragged. "You're disgusting. I'd rather stay single all my life than let you control me!"

Vincent's eyes hardened as he lowered his voice, now threatening. "I heard the orphanage where you grew up is about to be demolished. Without funds or connections, they'll have to send the kids elsewhere. Your old home will be gone, Alicia."

Hatred flared in Alicia's eyes. "Vincent! You bastard!"

Vincent looked away, unable to meet her gaze.

Alicia nodded quietly.

"I saw your work," he continued.

Alicia's eyes widened. "You saw my graduation project online?"

Tyrone nodded. "You have real talent."

Alicia felt a warmth blossom in her chest. "Thank you…"

"I'm willing to lower my requirements for collaboration. I'll sponsor your studies in Italy this year," Tyrone said, his gaze meaningful.

Alicia's breath caught, her nerves on edge. "Really?"

He nodded and stood, looking her in the eye. "But there's a condition."

Alicia looked at him anxiously.

"When you come back, you'll work for Lynch Corporation," Tyrone said firmly. He never let talent slip away—and Alicia was someone he was determined to keep.