Rena's brows furrowed, curiosity piqued by the unfamiliar name.

Who was Alexis?

Before she could inquire further, Waylen motioned for her to take a seat, his tone gentle as he extended an offer.

“Would you care for some coffee? Though, I must insist that young ladies like you should drink more milk than coffee."

Rena remained standing, her resolve firm.

She was determined not to be swayed by his charm, to stand her ground in the face of his undeniable allure.

She was fully aware of the complexities that Lay beneath his surface.

Waylen couldn't help but Laugh at her childish look. He looked at her affectionately and asked in a low voice, "You are here to question me, right? Why don't you ask away?"

With a defiant gaze, Rena posed the question that had been haunting her thoughts.

“Why did you kiss me in secret?"

Waylen's response was simple, his voice unapologetic as he replied, “Because I wanted to."

Rena's words faltered, her argument crumbling in the face of his sincerity.

She was not as eloquent as him, and their status was not equal. She knew that with his family background, it was easy for him to deal with her. Not only her, but also her family might be implicated.

Rena's eyes were a little red. Her voice trembled with a mixture of frustration and vulnerability.

"I showed you kindness, and you repaid me with betrayal."

In a swift motion, Waylen rose from his seat, his presence commanding the room.

Rena's heart fluttered like a caged bird, her nerves tingling with a mixture of anticipation and apprehension. What was Waylen up to?

A gentle footfall, almost like a phantom's, heralded Waylen's approach from behind. His warm breath danced over her ear as he whispered, "I've stolen a kiss from you before, but is that really repaying you with betrayal? Am I not as handsome as the others you know?"

Rena's instinct was to step back, but Waylen‘s firm yet tender grasp on her waist held her in place. Her heart raced, his words echoing in the air like a sweet yet puzzling melody.

Waylen, at the seasoned age of thirty-five, was well-versed in the language of women, and Rena was no exception.

He leaned in further, his words a teasing promise as his breath brushed her ear.

“I'm not here to play games, contrary to what you might think. My family's traditions don't allow me to indulge in fleeting romances."