After hanging up, he said impassively, “Alright then! There's a French restaurant across the street. Would Miss Smith do me the honor of accompanying me?"

Vanessa felt a tinge of excitement.

She had her own plans to discuss with Leonel.

This man before her was capable and ruthless. Love was no longer on her agenda at this stage of life. She believed Leonel could be the right match for her-most importantly, she could use him to crush Edwin, making him rue his past decisions.

At the French restaurant, Leonel seemed preoccupied while Vanessa kept rambling about her plans.

Leonel smiled absentmindedly. “Was your approach with Edwin the same?"

Vanessa's face turned red..

The man in front of her saw right through her facade.

Leonel idly toyed with his lighter, a faint smile lingering on his lips. "Edwin doesn't fancy assertive women. He prefers them a tad more submissive, a bit gentler."

Laura was tailor-made for him.

Delicate, stunning, and compliant.

Leonel had met Laura only a few times but found her quite endearing-the sort suited to be a homebound partner. She was actually quite like Cecilia in a way.

Vanessa blurted out, “Do you also prefer such women, Mr. Douglas?"

Leonel cast his gaze downward. "I prefer them a bit more untamed!"

As soon as he finished speaking, the very wild one herself entered the restaurant. Alexis glanced at Leonel as she strolled past and, naturally, at Vanessa too.

It was then that Vanessa comprehended why Leonel had invited her for Lunch.

And why this particular venue.

It was for Alexis!

Instantly, she felt ill at ease, lowering her voice. “Alexis is a strong, assertive woman as well, not much different from me!"

Leonel remained silent.