There was a feast at home and her presence was requested.

It had been a while since she last visited home. Agreeing to attend, she inquired about a preferred gift.

Waylen jovially responded that her presence was the best gift but also playfully warned her against too much celebrity mingling.

Alexis offered a gentle smile.

After wrapping up her work, she headed to the villa.

As evening approached, the house buzzed with life.

The aroma of food filled the air, and servants bustled about. In the dimming light, Alexis warmly embraced Waylen.

She then retrieved a large bouquet of roses from her sports car's trunk.

"A gift for my dearest Mom and Dad!"

Waylen chuckled. “You always know the perfect gift, especially one to brighten Mom's day!"

Holding the bouquet, Alexis entered the villa.

Waylen watched her with a thoughtful gaze, pausing momentarily to survey the cars of family members who had gathered to celebrate. Yet, one person's absence was palpable.

In the solitude of his study, Waylen had reflected deeply since Leonel's departure that morning.

He believed his actions were justified but couldn't shake off a sense of regret.

If he truly saw Leonel as his son, how could he justify driving him away?

These thoughts lingered for days, accompanied by memories of Leonel's childhood, his help with business matters, and their shared time together in the study.

Now, that connection felt lost.

Waylen smoked a few cigarettes, his thoughts interrupted only when someone called him back inside.

He walked slowly, occasionally glancing back, half-expecting Leonel to appear.

During the birthday celebration, the younger members of the Fowler and Evans families, including Edwin, Laura, and Olivia, gathered around a large table adorned with Rena's homemade cake and longevity noodles, Waylen's favorites.