Rich Radiant and Over Him (Alicia and Vincent) novel Chapter 95

Alicia stayed silent, an odd ache blooming in her chest that she couldn't quite explain.

That year, when Tyrone and Maddox's feud shook Harboridge City to its core—sending shockwaves through the entire business world—Alicia was still a child. With the Lynch family's prominent status, every move they made was headline news, scrutinized by the press and public alike.

Tyrone was eighteen when he broke ties with the Lynches for Serena, causing a scandal that rocked the city. Alicia was only twelve then, still reeling from the pain of being returned to the orphanage by her foster parents.

"Alicia, no one can ever truly matter to Tyrone. His heart belongs to Serena, and her alone," Jade warned, as if reminding Alicia not to get any foolish ideas about Tyrone.

"Do you like Tyrone? Is that why you're upset—because he loves someone else?" Alicia shot back, her tone guarded. "If you know that Tyrone and I are just business partners, then you should know I have no feelings for him beyond that. So why tell me this? Are you trying to insult me, or warn me off?"

Jade frowned, her expression shifting before she let out a short laugh. "Mina always said you look like a harmless bunny, but you've got a bite. I didn't believe it till now—you really do have a sharp tongue."

"Thank you," Alicia replied coolly, turning her gaze to the passing city through the car window.

"I just don't want you to fall for him," Jade continued softly, her words landing like a blade. "Trust me, I know better than anyone how hard Tyrone is to resist…"

And it was true. Someone as accomplished as Tyrone—it was only natural to develop feelings for him, given enough time.

—

The car pulled up outside the rehabilitation hospital. Alicia followed Jade out, her nerves tight.

"I arranged for you to meet Serena today," Jade said, offering a small smile. "She's curious about you, and I wanted you to meet her as well." With that, she led Alicia inside.

Alicia frowned, unsure why Serena wanted to see her.

In the rehab wing, Serena was slowly making her way along the parallel bars, her legs seemingly lifeless.

"A marriage of convenience, I know. Tyrone told me," Serena finished for her, her smile gentle but sad. "Honestly, I never approved of this arrangement. It isn't fair to you."

The warmth faded from Serena's eyes, replaced by a sorrowful compassion. "Because of the accident, and my age, I can't have children. The Lynch family would never accept an heirless son. Using a contract marriage to have you carry his child… it's wrong, Alicia."

Alicia felt as if someone had squeezed her heart, making it hard to breathe.

So that was it. They only wanted her to have a child because Serena couldn't.

Her eyes stung. Alicia fought to keep her composure. "Miss Sinclair… what exactly are you trying to say?"

"I want you and Tyrone to end this marriage before it becomes a mistake," Serena replied quietly. "As for the money he promised you—I can pay it. Tyrone… he hasn't touched you, has he? He only promised me you'd have his child through IVF."