Chapter 94: Her damp hair

"Father, why don't you stay for dinner with us?" Layla asked warmly, a hopeful smile on her face.

"Maybe next time," Alekis replied, his gaze shifting to Lucius before he prepared to leave.

"I'll walk Dad out," Lucius offered, stepping forward to accompany his father, leaving Layla waiting in the living room.

Once at the car, Lucius opened the backseat door, and Alekis placed a firm, reassuring hand on his son's shoulder. "I know you've been wondering why I visited today," Alekis began. "I wanted to check on you and Layla, and I realized I can't remain impartial between you and your wife. Offering a small portion of the shares to Layla felt right; she's looking after you well, and I didn't expect her to be such a good wife," he admitted, a hint of admiration in his tone.