Thomas parted his lips to speak, but Marcus greeted him first. "Quite the surprise to see you, Mr. Smith!"

Thomas, masking his emotions, stated plainly, "Before my brother's death, he declared Melissa would steward the Smith family business.

So, she attends the funeral not just as his daughter but as his heir as well."

Thomas's gaze held Melissa's as he added softly, “Your ambition is clear in the way you've worked for Albert, proving yourself. Now, an opportunity stands before you. I'm confident you'll choose wisely."

He paused, gathering his thoughts, before continuing, "Weldon's last message for you was to release the past once he's gone. It's better to grasp the future that's now in your hands."

Visibly touched by sadness, Thomas collected himself before adding, “Weldon never expected you to see him as a father. His wish was simply for you to-"

Melissa cut in quietly, “I must apologize, Mr. Smith. I have no desire or claim to the Smith legacy. Vanessa should be your focus, not me."

Thomas seemed eager to say more, but Marcus interjected with a gentle suggestion to the woman, "Why not wait for me in the car?"

Melissa lingered momentarily, but then complied.

After her departure, Marcus shared a few words with Thomas.

When he rejoined Melissa in the car minutes later, she caught Thomas's retreat to his black limousine from the corner of her eye.

Turning to Marcus, curiosity piqued, she inquired, “What words were exchanged between you two?"

Starting the car with a subtle grin, Marcus replied, “Nothing important!"

Despite his casual dismissal, Melissa remained skeptical.

Under the cloak of night, Thomas approached the Smith family's hall of mourning.

His black limousine came to a halt, its door opening to let him emerge.

He advanced toward the hall, his footsteps deliberate.

Surrounding him, white candles burned in silent tribute to the lost.

Without hesitation, Thomas made his way to the forefront and knelt, lighting incense in a solemn gesture.

He whispered into the stillness, "Melissa carries new life, Weldon.