After a while, she inquired in a nasal voice, “Dad, will it be cold where you're going?”

Waylen smiled warmly.

“A little.”

Alexis, with concern in her voice, suggested, “Take more warm clothes with you, Dad. Then you won't feel cold. I'll come to visit you during the holidays. My embrace will keep you warm... and you won't be cold.". ©

Waylen's throat tightened.

Lowering his head, he kissed the precious girl, overwhelmed by his love for her.

So remarkably clever and endearing she was.

He truly didn't want to leave her. Overcome with affection, he kissed her repeatedly, calling her name, “Alexis... My sweetest little angel..."

Tears welled up in Alexis’ eyes.

Cradled in Waylen's embrace, she asked in a soft voice, "How long will you be gone, Dad?"

Waylen held her close and, after a profound silence, he replied in a hushed tone, "| don't know. Maybe three years, five years... or | might not return until you've grown up."

Yet Alexis did not cry.

She clung to her father, cherishing his warm presence...

Three days had later, Mark came to visit.

As the car came toa stop, the driver courteously opened the door for him.

Mark's countenance betrayed his inner turmoil.

Initially, he held little regard for Waylen, but over the years, he had witnessed Waylen's genuine love for Rena.

Now, Waylen faced a physical ailment, yet he still made every effort to care for his wife and daughter when sober.

Compassion overwhelmed Mark as he couldn't help but worry about them deeply.

Upon entering the hall, Mark spotted Waylen sitting on the sofa, engrossed in an old newspaper.

Approaching him, Mark inquired with gentle curiosity, "Is Rena not here?"

Waylen glanced up, displaying a hint of surprise before rising to his feet and answering, “She went to attend to some matters at the company.”