Leonel nodded, contemplating whether he should attend Diana's funeral in person or delegate the task to his secretary.

Ultimately, he chose to have his secretary make the trip, as he wished to avoid the presence of Serenity, which might evoke strong negative emotions.

Despite his absence, members of both the Fowler and Larson families, including Waylen, Rena, Marcus, and Elva, attended Diana's funeral as friends.

A week elapsed, and Alexis encountered Darwin.

In this brief span, Darwin appeared as if a layer of skin had been peeled away, rendering him gaunt.

His eyes were shrouded in gloom.

Empathy compelled Alexis not to overlook Darwin, especially considering his recent loss.

Darwin extended an invitation for coffee, and Alexis accepted.

In the cafe, even the waiter maintained a distance from Darwin while taking their orders, given his somber demeanor.

“Why didn't you attend that day?" Darwin inquired of Alexis.

Initially taken aback, Alexis struggled to formulate a response, but Darwin continued, “Ah, yes, you're pregnant. It wouldn't have been suitable for you to attend such an event."

Alexis offered a smile as the waiter delivered Darwin's coffee.

His trembling fingers grasped the cup, and he consumed half of it in a single gulp.

Alexis couldn't help but notice the blood on his finger.

She gazed silently at his finger for a moment before shifting her gaze to his face.

Darwin lowered his head to inspect his finger. Abruptly, a sinister smile crossed his face as he whispered, “I encountered Serenity before this."

Alexis remained silent.

Darwin's tone remained nonchalant. "I broke her legs. She won't trouble me anymore, and my world will be serene. Oh! The baby in her womb is no more. Are you pleased, Alexis? She won't torment you with the baby anymore."

Darwin spoke in a detached manner, and Alexis listened with growing numbness.

A sudden wave of nausea swept over her.