Following Korbyn's remarks, the sound of another car approaching became audible.

Leonel parked the car, disembarked, and shut the car door. With utmost respect, he entered and addressed Korbyn, "Grandpa."

Korbyn glanced at Leonel, and then at Alexis, and gave a slight nod.

Nobody else said a word for a while.

Everyone was aware that Leonel wouldn't easily let go of Alexis, especially after her return. However, Alexis showing up with Calvin was also unexpected.

Waylen, always resilient, appreciated the natural course of competition and its victor.

Rena, on the other hand, was filled with concern.

Leonel, Evelyn's father, seemed distant now that Calvin and Alexis appeared to be a couple.

Rena was torn, like choosing between the palm and back of her hand.

How could she favor one over the other when she cared for them both?

At that moment, Leonel opened the back door of his car, and a puppy tumbled out.

The little canine shook as it landed.

But soon, it found Evelyn and sniffed around her feet.

Evelyn scooped it up immediately.

Leonel watched her for a moment and then said softly, "You're welcome at my place if you miss Ollie."

Evelyn, though fond of the puppy, felt distant towards Leonel, for she actually didn't really know him. She clutched the dog and stood by Calvin.

Calvin beamed and gently tousled her soft, curly brown hair.

Leonel's gaze lingered on them.

Finally, Leonel's eyes met Alexis', only to find her gaze fixed mostly on Calvin and Evelyn. Her eyes were soft and tender.

A sense of heaviness settled in Leonel's heart, darkening his expression.