He took a moment, sitting in silence, before securing his seat belt and igniting the engine.

Three hours later, they arrived at Warsew.

Upon arrival, Leonel signed his name, and two hours later, he received a white urn containing Kenneth's ashes.

Outside, Alexis waited patiently.

As Leonel emerged, she approached him with a gentle inquiry. “Are you planning to take it back to Duefron?”

Leonel, his voice low, shook his head. "He hasn't completed his journey yet. I'll leave it here in Warsew.

Alexis felt a wave of confusion wash over her.

Leonel led her to the riverside. He carefully opened the urn and released the ashes gently into the flowing river.

Gradually, the dust remains drifted away, disappearing into the water's depths.

A silent finality hung in the air.

Placing a comforting hand on his shoulder, Alexis gently asked, "Do you still hate him?"

Leonel offered no words in response. Instead, he turned and embraced Alexis tenderly.

He nestled his face close to her, remaining silent, lost in his thoughts.

Alexis chose not to break the silence.

Gazing into the distance, she pondered how the shadows of one's childhood could take a lifetime to fade. Despite Leonel's wealth and success, the scars of his past seemed destined to linger in his heart forever.

They lingered by the river for about half an hour before finally departing.

As the evening settled in at eight, Leonel guided the car back to Duefron. Remaining seated, he softly suggested to Alexis, “You go home first."

Casting a side glance at him, Alexis sensed something unspoken.

In a tone filled with quiet resolve, Leonel added, "I'm heading out.

I'll return before ten."