But Waylen halted him.
âWhere have you been last night? Alexis was out, and you were gone too.
This house is starting to feel less Like a home with each passing day.
Is it haunted that neither of you want to be here?â
With no other option, Leonel took a seat on the sofa.
With a meaningful look at one of the servants, Waylen signaled for a medical kit to be brought in to tend to Leonelâs injuries.
The concerned servant, who had watched Leonel grow up, couldnât help but inquire, âWho could have beaten you up this badly?â
Leonel felt embarrassed to discuss it in front of Waylen.
Leonel mumbled, attempting to downplay the situation.
But how could Waylen be easily fooled? His gaze was sharp, and after a moment of contemplation, he let out a chuckle.
âOur Mr.
Douglas commands respect out there.
Who would dare lay a hand on him? If thereâs a fight, it must be about girls!â
Leonel gingerly touched his bruised nose.
In high spirits, Waylen lit a cigarette and leaned in, his curiosity piqued.
âSo, how much younger is this Calvin compared to you?â
Leonel was slightly caught off guard by his directness.
Waylen laughed again.
âYou see, I may not have much, but Iâve got some experience to share with you!â
He paused, a mischievous glint in his eye.
âWhen Rena was young, oh, she was quite the heartthrob, a real handful! What should I do? We canât have a husband and wife constantly at odds.
So, we need to find a way to turn a rival into an ally! Like that young man with the last name Moore, didnât I just adopt him as my sworn son? Learn from that, young man!â
Leonelâs expression remained inscrutable, a mix of surprise and bewilderment.
Leonel paused in tending his wound and stood up.
He announced, âMr.
Fowler, I think itâs time for me to get some rest.
â
Waylen called out to him.
âHey, Iâm not done talking!â
Leonel was already making his way upstairs, his posture exuding pride and dignity.
His voice echoed back to Waylen.
âIâm not quite ready to adopt a son that old.
â If I decide to have a child, Iâll do it on my own terms!â
Waylen scoffed, âDo you think having a child is as simple as a hen laying an egg? If you can do it, then have one for me! Rena and I have been yearning for a grandchild.
Let me tell you, none of you measure up to Edwin.
He always handled family conflicts with such finesse!â