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."