"I never saw Edwin ending up with Laura," Leonel remarked.

Alexis offered only a faint smile in response.

Half an hour later, they arrived at the villa.

As Alexis opened the car door, she hesitated, and then turned to Leonel.

"Look at Edwin and Laura. Despite everything, Edwin chose Laura and will always side with her. It makes me think about our past-"

Her voice trailed off, leaving her thought unfinished, but she knew Leonel understood.

Leonel watched her walk towards the villa, deep in thought.

Inside the living room, Waylen and Mark were engaged in a low-key conversation on the sofa.

Cecilia, usually more reserved, was involved in a discussion with Rena.

Alexis and Leonel entered one after another. Mark, attempting to lighten the mood, quipped, "There is our little Lexi!"

Alexis greeted Mark and Cecilia warmly.

Waylen's gaze shifted from his daughter to Leonel trailing behind her, his eyes flashing with irritation.

“Why did you two return together?"

His intense eyes moved back and forth between them, filled with concern that his daughter might be facing some significant trouble.

“We just had dinner together," Alexis replied nonchalantly.

Waylen, unconvinced, pressed on, “Just dinner?"

Growing impatient, Alexis put down her briefcase.

“Dad, I thought we were here to discuss the Smiths' situation. Why are you fixating on these minor details?"

Waylen shot her a stern look but decided not to pursue the matter further.

“Where's Laura?" Alexis asked, changing the subject as she glanced around.