Stepping into the store, Alexis called out, “Laura?”

Laura expressed surprise. "Alexis?"

Alexis picked up the rubber duck that had caught Laura's interest, giving it a couple of squeezes. The quacking sound it emitted was undeniably adorable.

“Interested? I'll get it for you."

Laura blushed and commented, "It must be amusing to have it in the bathtub."

Alexis had been silently observing Laura. It occurred to her that she hadn't seen Laura in such a light-hearted manner before.

A realization struck Alexis-Laura must have been influenced by Edwin.

Alexis found the duckling toy intriguing as well. Consequently, she purchased four and tossed two into her own car.

With time on her hands, Alexis joined Laura for dinner and later escorted her back home.

Upon leaving, Alexis noticed a middle-aged man skulking around near her car.

Alexis frowned and questioned, "Who are you?"

Recognition struck, leaving her momentarily stunned. The man was none other than Leonel's father, Kenneth.

Kenneth greeted her with a smile. "You're Alexis, correct? Has Leonel spoken about me?"

Alexis heard about {the things Kenneth had done.

Deep-rooted animosity toward this man welled within her.

Crossing her arms, she sneered. "Should he? Why would he mention you to me?"

Kenneth, somewhat peeved but prioritizing financial gains, stifled his anger and stated, "It doesn't bother me that Leonel hasn't mentioned me to you earlier, but there's no harm in acknowledging it now. Alexis... I understand you two are on the path to matrimony.

When is the wedding? Which hotel is it to be held in?"

Resting against the car, Alexis cut to the chase. "You're after money, aren't you?"

Kenneth grinned and remarked, "I appreciate your astuteness."