Holding the bouquet, Alexis entered the villa.
Waylen watched her with a thoughtful gaze, pausing momentarily to survey the cars of family members who had gathered to celebrate. Yet, one person’s absence was palpable.
In the solitude of his study, Waylen had reflected deeply since Leonel’s departure that morning.
He believed his actions were justified but couldn’t shake off a sense of regret.
If he truly saw Leonel as his son, how could he justify driving him away?
These thoughts lingered for days, accompanied by memories of Leonel’s childhood, his help with business matters, and their shared time together in the study.
Now, that connection felt lost.
Waylen smoked a few cigarettes, his thoughts interrupted only when someone called him back inside.
He walked slowly, occasionally glancing back, half-expecting Leonel to appear.
During the birthday celebration, the younger members of the Fowler and Evans families, including Edwin, Laura, and Olivia, gathered around a large table adorned with Rena’s homemade cake and longevity noodles, Waylen’s favorites.
A place was set for Leonel as they always did, but as dinner commenced, his absence was unmistakable, and his name remained unspoken to keep Alexis’ spirits up.
The butler then interrupted with a delivery. “Mr. Fowler, this is from Mr Douglas!”
Waylen stood abruptly. “Where is he?”
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The butler hesitated. “He left the gift and didn’t come in.”
Waylen resettled into his chair with a soft smile.
“Well, he’s very nice to bring me a gift. Please, take it to my study.”
The butler nodded and ascended the stairs with the package.
Waylen glanced at Alexis. “Haven’t seen him around lately?”
Alexis responded with characteristic frankness. “We have a case next week in Czanch. It’s strictly professional.”
Waylen didn’t press further.
Feeling unsettled, Alexis excused herself after dinner and ascended to the balcony to breathe in the cool night air.
In the back of the villa, she noticed a Land Rover, unmistakably Leonel’s.
He was there, leaning against it and smoking.
Their eyes met, bridging the distance with a silent exchange.