Jaime, evidently fond of Melissa, silently offered her a glass of wine, his actions speaking volumes.

Alan, observant of his son's demeanor, wore a warm smile.

"It's a special occasion for us to be together. Let's set aside business for the evening and simply enjoy our meal," he proposed, shifting his attention to the Smith brothers with a playful nudge.

"It's heartwarming to see the younger generation connecting so effortlessly!"

Thomas offered a smile in response.

Even Weldon, the typically stoic head of the Smith family, displayed a rare hint of warmth.

Over tea, Weldon's gaze lingered on Melissa, his estranged daughter, noting her resemblance to her mother.

Despite her delicate appearance, she had grown remarkably competent, a transformation he silently credited to Albert's influence.

Alan, ever enthusiastic, chimed in again, "The Japanese dishes here are exceptional! The salmon, sourced directly from the coast, is particularly fresh."

Weldon, maintaining his composure, nodded in agreement.

The group unanimously concurred.

Thus, Alan deferred to Jaime to oversee the meal arrangements. As Jaime gave instructions to a waiter, the room's entrance was graced by a striking presence.

Marcus, clad in a bespoke suit, stood under the spotlight, his nobility unmistakable.

Marcus' eyes quickly scanned the room, eventually settling on Jaime.

Despite his inherent confidence, Jaime appeared somewhat disconcerted by the comparison.

“What a party you have here!" Marcus announced, stepping inside with Sylvia, who offered Melissa a brief, polite smile.

The atmosphere turned notably awkward.

Alan was the first to address the elephant in the room. Despite having his own plans for Melissa, he had made sure to notify Rena in advance. Yet, Marcus' direct approach caught him off guard.

Assuming the role of the elder, Alan adopted a slightly patronizing tone. "Marcus, fancy seeing you here. We're simply enjoying a family dinner tonight, I'm afraid..

"A family dinner, you say?"