Once Alexis joins our family, she'll be cherished. Ablett will treat her like a treasure!"

Waylen, thoughtfully sipping his tea, responded with a gentle smile, “Your intentions are kind, but matters of the heart are for the young to decide. I wouldn't want them to harbor any resentment if things don't go well."

He then skillfully diverted the conversation, leaving the parents to reluctantly accept his stance.

Subsequently, Waylen stumbled upon Leonel.

The young man looked noticeably leaner and unwell, stirring a sense of concern in Waylen.

As he acknowledged his presence with a nod and attempted to move past, Leonel halted him with a plea, “Mr. Fowler, I implore you, don't marry Alexis to someone else."

Waylen, touched yet troubled, paused.

He spoke with a soft earnestness. “Leonel, you must know, even in those 8 years of your absence, Alexis remained single and never agreed to meet someone we introduced. We assumed she'd remain so."

With that, he excused himself, his steps quickening as he sought to avoid further emotional turmoil.

Leonel remained still, a picture of despair, until Rena approached.

Her eyes were filled with a mix of worry and affection.

Despite everything, she loved all her children equally. She reached out to him, her voice quivering slightly. “Leonel.”

He responded with a grave, "Mrs. Fowler."

Rena, gently touching his arm, inquired with heartfelt concern, “Are you still in pain?"

He shook his head.

Observing his inadequate attire, she fretted, “Why not dress more warmly?"

He simply replied, "I'm not cold."

Rena, perceiving the profound changes in him, grasped his arm more firmly, pleading, “Please, come back home. Waylen might be a Little bit harsh the other day, but he cares deeply for you. An apology could mend things."

Yet, Leonel's resolve was unshaken.

He aspired to be Alexis's partner, not merely a son in the Fowler household.