Chapter 1700:

However, Franco recognized Nate’s true intention and opted not to call him out on it. Resting his chin in his palm, Franco’s lips curled into an enigmatic smile as he watched Nate head for the exit.

To the restroom?

It seemed more like Nate was intent on keeping a vigilant eye. Anticipating some unfolding drama, Franco swiftly rose to follow him.

At the same time, Corrine and Leif were exchanging farewells in the parking area.

Leif peered down at Corrine, examining her closely. “You seem better than the last time we met in Riverveille. Have you been under the weather?”

Corrine offered a reassuring smile. “With your help, I’m safe.” Her words carried a deep sense of trust.

Leif patted her head and was about to say more when he noticed someone approaching from the corner of his eye. His smile dimmed.

Corrine caught his look and spotted Nate approaching them. Instinctively, she turned and made her way toward Nate.

She moved with the natural ease of a bird returning to its roost, a whale to the ocean—a deep, instinctual pull. It appeared Nate was the sole anchor of Corrine’s trust.

A slight frown marred Leif’s features. It seemed Corrine had disregarded all the counsel he had provided.

“Mr. Mendoza, are you on your way out?” Franco approached Leif.

As the host, it was his duty to bid farewell to the guests. The truth was, Franco was primarily there to observe the unfolding drama.

The warmth quickly faded from Leif’s expression, reverting to his customary aloof demeanor. “Apologies, but an urgent issue at home demands my immediate attention.”

𝕋𝖍𝖎𝖘 𝖋𝖎𝖑𝖊 𝖋𝖎𝖗𝖘𝖙 𝖆𝖕𝖕𝖊𝖆𝖗𝖊𝖉 𝖔𝖓 g𝖺𝗅𝗇𝗈ν𝖊𝗅𝘀．𝖼𝗈𝗆

The senior members of the Mendoza and Astley families were at odds, a sentiment that had seeped into the younger generations.

While there were no overt conflicts, episodes of competition occasionally surfaced.

Initially, the youth believed these old resentments did not concern them. Yet, the elders had promptly enrolled them in military training, directly pitting them against one another.

This arrangement brewed tension and hostility during their military stints. Despite the years apart, Leif found it challenging to see past Franco’s previous machinations.

Leif and Corrine shared a bond, enhanced by their like-minded nature. Both were notorious for never overlooking any disrespect.

Franco, maintaining a polite demeanor, offered a smile. “It appears we may not have entertained you adequately this time. Perhaps I could arrange a private dinner to make amends and properly welcome you back. Would that be agreeable? If you could tell me how long you’ll be in town, I can organize something suitable.”

A flicker of interest passed through Leif’s eyes. On the surface, it appeared to be a simple welcome dinner, yet its true purpose was to delve into his plans. Franco was indeed a close ally of Nate’s.

“You’re too generous, Mr. Astley,” Leif responded. “A welcome dinner isn’t necessary. Your family has much to celebrate and many matters to attend to. I wouldn’t want to impose and cause any inconvenience.”

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