The servant shook her head. “Mrs. Douglas just picked up the dog. She didn't say much, just mentioned she wouldn't be staying here for a while. She even offered to help find new jobs for us, too."

The servant seemed on the verge of tears. She'd been with the family for years and hated the idea of leaving.

Hearing this, Leonel sank into the sofa, lighting a cigarette.

He took a drag, and then rose and stepped outside. His figure vanished into the yard's darkness, followed by the revving of a car engine.

Though exhausted, Leonel couldn't find peace.

He knew Alexis well. She'd never accept his actions. So why did he let Anika in? Besides spiting Alexis and seeking comfort elsewhere, what was he really after?

He couldn't even answer that himself.

In his thirties and a veteran of the business world, he'd always put himself first. He knew a clean divorce from Alexis, retaining visitation with the kids, was the smart move. Maybe even remarriage, securing a successor beyond Daniel.

In that case, he wouldn't have to sever ties with the Fowler family either.

But he didn't want that. Perhaps he'd been waiting for this moment for a long time.

He hoped Alexis would feel something about him again, even if it was hatred.

Around 11 in the evening, Leonel pulled up to the Fowlers’ mansion.

The lights were out.

Without drawing attention, he stayed in his car, waiting.

Glancing up, he could see the balcony outside Alexis’ room. He recalled seeing her there years ago, her hair caught in the night breeze, a sight that had captivated him.

His fingers stung. The cigarette had singed his skin.

He slumped onto the chair, gaze fixed ahead, yet his eyes were bloodshot.

The following morning stirred activity within the Fowlers' mansion.

Waylen rose with the sun, craving fresh air, only to find a black Land Rover parked in the yard, its windows rolled down. Inside sat the man he once esteemed.

Despite bruises marring his features, Leonel's handsomeness remained unscathed.