Olivia was aware that Leonel had recently entered into a partnership with Pryor Technology. She surmised that his frequent interactions with a particular individual there were the reason behind his teasing.

She picked up a magazine, feigning nonchalance, and stated, “I'm single now."

Leonel smiled again. “Really? I thought you and Dylan were quite close. He was here just a few days ago with gifts. I assumed he was proposing."

Olivia tossed the magazine at Leonel. “Dylan and I are just friends.”

Marcus interjected softly, “A friend to watch the aurora borealis with, see the sunrise, and go clubbing? If such friends are common, introduce one to Elva. She could use such a friend."

Elva, inadvertently dragged into the conversation, chose to remain silent.

The focus remained squarely on Olivia.

She picked up another magazine, flipping through it before eventually saying, "It just wasn't meant to be. I had no choice."

Leonel dropped the subject.

His suspicion had been piqued because, in business discussions, Raphael often brought up Olivia. He seemed eager to ingratiate himself into Leonel's personal life to become his friend, but Leonel was no fool. He sensed that Pryor Technology's interest in collaboration was a facade, and Raphael was primarily aimed at getting closer to Olivia.

That man was a complex character to deal with.

For now, Leonel adopted a wait-and-see approach.

Alexis, ever the protective one, turned to Leonel and said softly, "She's an adult now. She can handle her own issues. Let's just cut her some slacks."

"Do you feel protective of her?" Leonel asked, his voice dropping to a tender tone.

After a pause, he added gently, "I understand.”

Leonel and Alexis continued their conversation side by side, their tone gentle and peaceful. To observers like Waylen and Rena, it seemed there was a deeper connection rekindling between them, easing their concerns.

Waylen and Rena harbored hopes that Leonel and Alexis might eventually find their happiness this time.

They exchanged smiles and held hands tightly.

Later that evening, the entire turkey was devoured and the rum consumed; even Leonel, who typically abstained, indulged in a small drink.

As the night deepened, Alexis, having just settled Cordelia into bed, descended the stairs to find Leonel seated on the living room sofa, seemingly engrossed in work. Approaching him, she inquired, “Why are you still working so late?"