Waylen then turned his attention back to Alexis, asserting, "See, it's all your fault. You haven't set a good example for your younger siblings. They now all resist the idea of marriage."

Alexis chuckled. "Dad, that's not fair. Where do you think I learn this from?"

Waylen was infuriated, and contemplated freezing Alexis' bank account.

Leonel gently patted Alexis on the shoulder, advising, “It's a rare occasion for you to come back. Let's not argue."

Marcus casually flipped through a magazine, remarking, “This is how things usually work between them. Leonel, I'd suggest not getting involved. My father actually thrives on it. He just doesn't feel well if he hasn't argued with Alexis."

With that, Marcus stood up and bid a serious goodbye.

“I apologize, but I have a golfing appointment. My secretary is waiting for me outside. Don't wait up."

Waylen expressed a slight dissatisfaction. "Can't you reschedule for another time? Today is supposed to be about family!"

While adjusting his diamond cuff link, Marcus offered a faint smile and replied, "Today's appointment holds greater significance. I can't afford to miss it."

The parking lot was visible from Alexis' vantage point.

Beside the black car waiting for Marcus stood a petite figure—Melissa.

Alexis suspected that the golfing appointment was just a fabrication, surmising that Marcus simply intended to spend more time with Melissa.

How interesting!

As Marcus approached the parking lot, Melissa courteously opened the car door for him, and he got in.

A slight frown creased Marcus' brow as he observed Melissa opening the passenger door of the car.

He instructed, "Sit in the back."

Melissa took her place beside Marcus with unease. Though modest, she wasn't entirely oblivious. Lately, gossip about her and Marcus had been circulating in the company.

The rumors suggested that Melissa was seeking connections with Marcus.

However, she had no such intentions. She knew she and Marcus were not cut from the same cloth.

Determined to hold onto her job, she brushed off the harsh words.