He had little regard for Exceed Group; without the Fowler family and all those he cared about, what purpose did all that wealth serve?

He appealed softly, "Mr. Fowler, I don't wish to depart from the family."

He had grown up in the Fowler residence and was well-acquainted with the family rules.

Placing his briefcase aside and shedding his coat, he kneeled in the study.

Waylen scoffed. “Why are you kneeling? You were bold enough when you struck your sister. Leonel, despite everything, you grew up together and Alexis is like your sister. I would venture to say that even Rena and I combined haven't treated you as well as she has. Yet you hit her, resulting in a concussion! Who in this house would dare harm her like that? Have you considered that?"

Leonel began unbuttoning his shirt, eventually leaving him bare-chested.

Waylen, without restraint, took out his belt, initiating a rigorous family discipline.

Men from both the Fowler and Evans families abstained from striking their women.

Waylen's actions were driven not only by concern for Alexis but also to discipline Leonel, delivering blows without a hint of mercy.

Leonel's back soon transformed into a canvas of open wounds and blood.

The pain was excruciating.

Nevertheless, Leonel made no sound, enduring it with stoicism.

Only when Waylen grew weary did he curse, "You little rascal! I've always cared for you, but this is too much, and I can't quell my anger without doing so."

Leonel mumbled an apology.

Waylen tossed the belt aside!

Observing the figure kneeling in front of him, the child he had raised himself, Waylen's heart brimmed with indescribable pain.

He declared, “Leonel, if you want to stay in this house, you must break things off with Alexis!"

“Mr. Fowler!"

Leonel, through clenched teeth, asserted, "I love Alexis, and I can't end things with her!"

Waylen, equally unwavering, retorted, “Choose between being my son or being Alexis’ husband. Leonel, you're intelligent, you know the prudent decision. Even if you choose Alexis, she might not respond in kind."