After a moment of contemplation, he spoke in a hushed tone, âYou claim Raphael is the father of the baby.
Why bother asking about another manâs child? If youâre eager for a child, why not go back to Gina? She might be willing to have one with you.
â
Dylan slumped heavily against his car, unable to rise for quite some time.
Nearby, Leyla was playing hide and seek with her cousins.
She darted toward the gate and spotted Dylan.
The joy on her face was evident as she prepared to run to him.
However, Edwin swiftly scooped her up and placed her on his shoulder, whispering, âStay away from him.
Heâs a stranger now.
â
.
.
Library
Confusion clouded Leylaâs face; she recognized Dylan, but sensed her uncleâs anger and chose not to resist.
Resting on Edwinâs shoulder, she looked over at Dylan and softly called out his name.
A pang of pain clutched Dylanâs heart, as he remembered the blissful moments with Olivia and Leyla, back when they lived together as a family.
He had spent years by Oliviaâs side and knew her intimately.
Yet, misled by Gina, he doubted Oliviaâs loyalty and cruelly accused her of infidelity, believing Raphael to be the father of the baby she was carrying.
At a critical juncture, his love faltered, and trust gave way to suspicion.
ALL the promises made at their wedding now seemed forgotten.
In his reflection, Dylan admitted to himself, âI am a bastard.
â
Leaning painfully against the car, he shut his eyes.
Edwin carried Leyla back towards the house, aware of her sadness, yet knowing she needed to sever ties with Dylan.
As the sun set gloriously, he settled Leyla on his lap, and gently wiped her tears, asking, âWho is more important to you, your mother or Dylan?â
Leyla blinked up at him, taking a moment before responding, âMommy is more important.
â
Edwin stroked Leylaâs head and gently said, âSo, Leyla, be brave for your mommy.
Letâs not talk about Dylan anymore, okay?â
She was puzzled-how did Dylan relate to her bravery? But she trusted Edwin.
Although determined to put Dylan out of her mind, Leyla still felt a twinge of sadness and sought comfort in Edwinâs presence.
Her face was delicate and beautiful, with large eyes, a small nose, and vivid red lips.
Unable to resist, Edwin kissed her cheek and carried her inside.
In the dining room, Laura was arranging the table with the help of servants, her expression tinged with worry.
After setting Leyla down, Edwin caught his wifeâs anxious gaze.
Glancing upstairs, Laura asked in a subdued tone, âWhat happened? Did you talk to him? Was there⦠a fight with Dylan?â
Edwin patted Leyla on the head, sending her to play with her cousins.
Once she was out of earshot, he replied, âYes, we fought.
Well, more like I punched him a few times.
He didnât retaliate; he knows heâs in the wrong.
â
Laura remained silent.