Just then, another figure descended the stairs, catching Alexis off guard. "Marcus?" she exclaimed.

Marcus appeared weary.

He buttoned his shirt, explaining, "I've been wrapped up in a collaboration project. It just concluded this morning."

He seemed lost in thought for a moment.

Lately, his life had been hectic. Despite the company's growth, a sense of emptiness lingered within him.

His world was filled with socialites and stars.

He had considered settling down, but none of the women he dated felt right. So, he buried himself in work instead.

Waylen, though keen on having a grandson, was understanding and didn't press the issue. Rena, noticing Marcus' strained appearance, suggested, "Why don't you take a trip to unwind?"

Marcus took a seat opposite Alexis.

"I have a team-building event coming up. I'll get some time away then," he mentioned casually.

Rena let out a soft sigh.

Marcus wasn't one to easily fall in love. His last infatuation with his secretary had caused quite a stir.

Rena wondered how long it might be before Marcus found love again.

As they conversed, the sound of a car engine echoed from the driveway. Alexis surmised that Leonel had arrived from work.

She glanced at her watch.

It was seven o'clock, thirty minutes later than Leonel had previously mentioned.

Shortly after, Leonel entered, bearing a bouquet of roses in one hand and a plush sheep doll in the other. Evelyn's eyes lit up, and she dashed to embrace the doll, snuggling into its softness.

Leonel cautioned her gently, "Be careful not to get too close. We don't want any respiratory issues."

Evelyn looked a bit disappointed but complied.

Leonel then presented the roses to Alexis, saying softly, “These are for you."