His gaze instinctively shifted towards Waylen.

Waylen was leaning against the French window, furrowing his brow and slowly puffing on a cigarette.

Lyndon couldn't help but admire the young man's remarkable demeanor, even amidst his evident distress.

In a low voice, Lyndon replied to Cecilia, "No, she didn't. She won't be returning for the time being."

On the terrace, Waylen savored the final moments of his cigarette. His parents then started urging him to join them downstairs.

Slowly, he made his way to greet Lyndon, a highly esteemed guest in the

Fowler household.

The servants were bustling about, making all necessary preparations to welcome the family's cherished friend.

Korbyn, with his arm around Lyndon's shoulder, beamed with joy as he exclaimed, "Lyndon, it's been years, yet you remain as graceful as ever! I, on the other hand, am feeling quite old.”

Cecilia chimed in sweetly, "Dad, are you thinking of finding a new wife?"

Laughter erupted around the table, and Juliette joined in, jesting,

“Oh, nonsense! Your father will give you a good scolding for such remarks."

Cecilia stuck out her tongue and declared, “Mr. Coleman will protect

Juliette smiled affectionately and addressed Lyndon, "Cecilia has always been attached to you since she was a child."

Lyndon's gaze rested on Cecilia, his heart tinged with Longing.

Though he and his wife had a daughter, she had been adopted. If only he hadn't prioritized his own ego and disappointed his girlfriend at the time, could he have had a biological daughter as lively and lovely as

Cecilia?

He felt a wave of melancholy wash over him and softly uttered, "Cecilia is truly delightful." Then he gently patted her on the head.

Confused, Cecilia blinked her innocent eyes, unaware of the depth of

Lyndon's emotions.

Sensing the man's sadness, Korbyn swiftly changed the subject, rekindling a lively atmosphere. However, in the midst of their joyful conversation, Korbyn couldn't help but notice Waylen's somber mood.

Sighing inwardly, Korbyn knew that there was something bothering his son.