Edwin's cheeks flushed, his fair skin accentuating his embarrassment.

Alexis wrapped her arms around his neck and planted a kiss on his forehead.

“Keep at it, Edwin! You won't earn my respect if you don't win Laura over."

She winked.

"Don't worry, Granduncle Mark will handle Aunt Cecilia."

Edwin's smile was tinged with bitterness.

Alexis gave him a soft nudge.

“Just kidding. Laura's had it tough.

If you can't make her truly happy, leave her be. Don't stir up drama like today. Dylan was just playing you."

Edwin knew deep down, but his judgment had been clouded by the heat of the moment.

Alexis blew him a playful kiss.

"I'm off now!"

As she walked away, Edwin called out, “Lexi! Do you hate Leonel?"

She paused, then turned back with a Light smile.

“If you really care about me, find me a man who's both good-looking and strong."

Edwin remained silent.

He lingered in thought for a while before slowly approaching Alexis and enveloping her in a gentle embrace.

"I'm sorry."

He pondered if their paths would have been different had he not left with Leonel back then. Perhaps they would still be together, content and united.

Alexis responded with a reassuring pat.