He went out to the terrace to sit, after dinner.

Laura brought him a cup of tea.

He gently pulled her into his arms and held her like a child, recounting things from the past.

"Uncle Waylen has so many children. Three of his own and there was Leonel. Alexis is the same age as Leonel, but because she's a girl, she was allowed to slack off like during her piano practice or other things back then without receiving any punishment. Leonel's case was completely different. Uncle Waylen expected great things from him... he was way too hard on himself as well..."

Edwin's voice softened as he trailed off.

"He's not the same as us. Marcus or I would still be ourselves even if we weren't outstanding, because he's a Fowler and I am a Evans no matter what. Leonel is different though; he's always had to put in a lot of effort to impress Uncle Waylen to stay in the family."

Edwin sighed.

“Maybe... just maybe, this isn't what he truly wanted.

I don't think this is what he wants either. He just wants Alexis and is willing to walk this path."

Laura was a bit stunned but she listened attentively.

Still in his arms, she asked. "Are you going to show Leonel mercy?"

After a few seconds, Edwin shook his head.

He didn't want to be merciful. Leonel started all of it and he had to face the consequences.

Edwin had anticipated it, there wasn't any need for him to take action. The major financial conglomerates in Duefron were already restless.

They were fully behind Marcus.

They weren't going to let Leonel to disrupt the rules and interfere with others' interests.

Over at the Sterling Law Firm, Alexis stood quietly by the French windows, and financial reports were being murmured in her ears.

She knew how dangerous and fragile the alliance between the Smith family and Leonel was. If the Smith family succeeded in securing the investments, they would cut all ties with Leonel, leaving him all alone and crushed.

Leonel would be in a very dangerous and difficult position.

Marcus definitely wouldn't take things lightly.