Marcus interjected softly, âA 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.
â
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, âIt just wasnât meant to be.
I had no choice.
â
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 Leonelâs personal life to become his friend, but Leonel was no fool.
He sensed that Pryor Technologyâs 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, âSheâs an adult now.
She can handle her own issues.
Letâs just cut her some slacks.
â
âDo you feel protective of her?â Leonel asked, his voice dropping to a tender tone.
After a pause, he added gently, âI understand.
â
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, âWhy are you still working so late?â
Leonel gestured for her to sit beside him.
âIâm reviewing a project proposal for a collaboration with Pryor Technology.
It looks promising, but Iâm hesitant about partnering with them.
â
He withdrew a cigarette from his pack but left it unlit.
Turning to her, he explained quietly, âRaphael Jones, the president of Pryor Technology, was Oliviaâs boyfriend back in college.
Their breakup was messy, and based on our recent meetings, I suspect he still has feelings for her.
I just canât decide.
â
Alexis reviewed the document and noted its potential.
She faced Leonel, puzzled.
âWhy bring this business matter to me though? Youâre the businessman, Leonel.
Surely, Raphaelâs personal feelings shouldnât overly concern you.
â
Leonel looked at her intently, a playful edge to his voice.
âMiss Fowler, I have no idea you maintain such a firm line between personal and professional matters.
Did that young man today manage to sway you?â
After a moment, Alexisâ voice was hoarse as she asked, âDo you really want to know?â
Alexis fixed her eyes on Leonel.