Mitchel consented without hesitation. "Understood." Until he was in a position to safeguard Janey and Raegan openly, keeping Janey's paternity under wraps was wise and could prevent any unwanted attention. He harbored the hope of one day being openly recognized as part of their lives.

“The second rule is Janey doesn't go anywhere with you without my permission."

Mitchel nodded in agreement, accepting her condition.

"The last rule is that I expect not to cross paths with you beyond Janey's matters." Raegan needed to make it crystal clear that their interactions would be strictly regarding Janey. This was not an opening for Mitchel to weave back into her personal life.

This condition struck Mitchel hard, tempting him to protest, yet he recognized his lack of standing to do so. Any objection might jeopardize his fragile connection with Janey and by extension, Raegan.

He much preferred this arrangement over complete separation.

With a heavy heart, he conceded, "Okay."

Raegan, however, remained skeptical of his ready agreement. She gazed at him, firmly stating, “I trust you'll stick to your word. If not, our agreement ends here.

Mitchel nodded. "I'll heed your words," he assured her quickly.

Raegan, caught off-guard by his prompt compliance, chose silence over further discussion and turned to leave.

Mitchel, undeterred, offered softly, "Raegan, allow me to drive you to work. It's along my route.”

“No, thank you." Her refusal was swift, and with a meaningful look, she added, "And please, stop loitering around my place. Lack of sleep not only ages you prematurely but also shortens your lifespan!"

She hadn't missed the redness in his eyes, a clear sign of his nightly vigils, nor was she unaware of his all-night waits outside her villa, as the driver had informed her.

Raegan's concern wasn't for Mitchel, though. She wanted to prevent Janey from growing fond of someone who might not always be around due to health issues.

Mitchel offered a resigned smile. "Alright, I'll listen to you. It won't happen again."

Once again, Raegan found herself without words. The family driver was already nearby, waiting. She stepped into the car without another look at Mitchel.

As Raegan's car pulled away, Mitchel watched her determined departure, feeling a pang of sadness yet a strange sense of satisfaction. This interaction wasn't a complete loss.

Inside the car, Matteo started the engine and soon shared, "Mr. Dixon, your father has been visiting Swynborough more often lately. He's been meeting with a biologist, according to our findings."

Mitchel, attempting to relax, adjusted his tie and murmured, “Dig deeper. I need to know what he's up to.”

Alexis, after initially his short period of seizing control of the Dixon Group, had fallen into a long silence. He even went so far as to encourage Mitchel to start a family with offspring to further the Dixon lineage, adopting an unexpectedly fatherly demeanor.