Rich Radiant and Over Him (Alicia and Vincent) novel Chapter 185

Alicia froze, eyes downcast, lost in silence for a moment. Then, forcing a smile, she curled her fingers and spoke, “What are you talking about? Tyrone’s just my boss—the guy who pays my salary. I know my place.”

Melanie didn’t press the issue. She simply fell in step with Alicia as they headed out.

She must have really wanted to see her mom today; Alicia noticed how Melanie had taken extra care with her appearance, wearing a lovely white dress that made her look every bit the picture-perfect daughter.

Just before stepping into the elevator, Melanie hesitated. “Alicia, honestly… I think you’re a better match for my uncle,” she said quietly. “But I guess I’m a little selfish too. I’m sorry…”

Alicia hadn’t quite caught her words and was about to ask her to repeat, but Melanie stayed silent.

Downstairs, Tyrone waited in the lounge area, his long legs folded awkwardly on the sofa, as if the furniture couldn’t quite contain him.

Alicia spotted him from across the room—he stood out in any crowd, impossible to miss.

She used to think Vincent was the epitome of a wealthy, entitled heir, until she met Tyrone. Only then did she realize what true, effortless confidence looked like.

“You finally came down?” Tyrone stood as he noticed Melanie hiding behind Alicia, his brow furrowing. “Skipping class now? Who taught you that?”

“She really isn’t feeling well,” Alicia jumped in, trying to shield Melanie.

Melanie nodded, still half-concealed behind Alicia’s shoulder.

Tyrone glanced at Melanie for a moment. Alicia’s defense worked—he didn’t push the matter further.

“Tyrone…” Alicia called out as he headed toward the car, her nerves getting the better of her. “Maybe I should just stay behind… You and Melanie can go pick up her mother. I’ll just head home.”

She felt like an outsider. What if her presence upset Melanie? Then Tyrone would have to smooth things over…

She didn’t want to see Tyrone comforting another woman—even if she knew, deep down, she was just the hired help.

“We all met at Harboridge City, didn’t we?” Tyrone said, taking her hand. “You know each other. Come with us.”

Alicia couldn’t quite figure out Tyrone’s reasoning. Why insist she come along? Wasn’t he worried about upsetting the woman he actually cared about? Or was it like with Vincent, dragging her along just to reassure Serena?