Leo's tender heart endured the piercing loss of his mother, Sahra, at a young age. Despite the innocence of his years, the tragedy stirred a relentless pursuit for truth within him. It was during his father's wedding that the puzzle pieces fell into place, unraveling the cruel machinations played by Baty and Stanton, concealing his past in deception and agony. The burden of truth remained elusive, shackling Leo's hands from seeking justice for his mother's demise. However, the smoldering desire for retribution brewed within him, a desire to witness those responsible endure the agony they had wrought.
Even as he watched over his daughter with profound love, memories of his own lost childhood flooded Leo's mind- the gentle touch of his mother Sahra, her soothing voice, and the unwavering affection he missed due to the deceitful schemes of Baty and Stanton. Now, as these malevolent figures threaten to cast their ominous shadows over Rose, Leo's only daughter, he refuses to let history repeat itself. The thought of allowing Rose to endure what he had suffered in unbearable to Leo. He's determined to shield her from the same fate, vowing never to let those responsible inflict their darkness upon her life.
With an intense gaze fixed on the five figures, he decisively guided Catherine and both children down to the first floor. Behind them, the quintet followed closely, their steps echoing faintly in the corridor as they patiently waited Mrs. Paul's arrival. They refrained from causing further trouble and maintained silence. Leo's evident anger served as a clear warning that pushing him any more would only escalate things, a realization that kept them subdued and quiet.
When Leo called Mrs. Paul after 15 years, she was shocked at first, thinking she might have misheard. However, as she spoke to him, everything started to click, and she grasped the situation quickly. Without hesitation, she gathered all the necessary documents and rushed to the villa, knowing exactly what was happening and what would unfold after today. Mrs. Paul could tell a lot from Leo's calm but assertive nature, realizing that something significant must have occurred for him to reach out regarding the late madam's will. Regardless of the reason, the weight of the situation made her sigh. In her mind, she repeated, 'At last madam can rest in true peace. Sir, Leo is prepared to move forward with this.'
Mrs. Paul arrived at the villa in jut ten to twenty minutes. It had been ten whole years since she had last visited to pick up Sahra. The sight of the villa's beautiful furnishing brought back vivid memories of Sahra working there with grace. Her pure, innocent smile radiated warmth as she gracefully worked, casting a serene atmosphere wherever she went. Her presence seemed to embody an aura of purity, almost akin to that of a divine being. The thought of her death made Mrs. Paul feel like crying, but she quickly refocused on her task and entered the villa without dwelling further on the memories. Sahra trusted Mrs. Paul because of her decisive nature and keen insight beyond what people might expect. However, it was mostly Mrs. Paul's loyalty that led Sahra to leave her will to her. Their relationship was more akin to best friend in the past rather than just master and subordinate, something that wasn't a secret to anyone.
Stanton had been relentless in trying to buy Mrs. Paul to gain access to the will. He's convinced that whatever Sahra left behind wouldn't be in his favor. However, he couldn't simply eliminate Paul, as that would render the entire will invalid. Sahra had set up this safeguard herself to protect her close ones, which intensifies Stanton's animosity towards her. If it weren't for this estate, he'd have no qualms about cutting ties with anyone connected to Sahra in his family. Frustration etched across his face as he pondered the potential outcomes of the day. His disdain grew towards Boyle, who had disappointed him, and his expression darkened further upon Mrs. Paul's arrival.
As she entered the grand, stylish hall, it oddly familiar, like home. She noticed five people on one side and four on the other, seated apart. It was clear that conflict had erupted, signaling the start of a war. As Leo noticed her, a hint of sadness crossed his face, yet he composed himself, showing a professional demeanor as he stood up. This was not gone unnoticed by her, her heart sighed at his appearance. He extended his hand for a handshake and greeted, "Hello. Mrs. Paul. Thank you for coming. and I apologize for bothering you with this minor task. Please, take a seat."
Mrs. Paul said, "It has indeed been an extensive duration since my last visit. I must say, Mr. Brown's enduring energy is truly remarkable. The task assigned by Madam, even when they extended into late hours, do not pose a challenge; I perceive them as my solemn duty." Leo, upon hearing her words, responded with a humble smile. Stanton warmly welcome Mrs. Paul, but his demeanor didn't mirror his usual enthusiasm. Mrs. Paul didn't reciprocate his welcome in the same manner, which isn't disrespectful considering her position as the lawyer and Stanton's relationship as a devoted lover to her madam. She vividly recalls when he used her family as leverage to obtain the will. If not were for her family's resilience, she might have lost them. The threat remains etched in her memory, and she faced it as a challenge. In response, she countered by threatening him with the will, managing to slip out of his grasp. Stanton's own actions have created this situation. Furthermore, Mrs. Paul is well aware that Stanton lacks morality and can be opportunistic when it serves his interests. Her disgust lingered as she watched him act as though nothing happened. In a split of second, her smile transformed into a mocking expression, vividly recalling everything.
After the initial pleasantries, the conversation shifted to the crucial point. Mrs. Paul, a composed figure, lent an attentive ear to both the parties. With a measured nod, she spoke, her voice carrying a mix of firmness and understanding. " Mr. and Mrs. Amber, allow me to clarify. Since the passing of Madam, your visit of inquiries never happened." Your occasional visits held an undercurrent of threat. She stated, punctuating her words with a brief pause, "It's understandable your unawareness of the alterations made within the property documents. Just three days preceding Madam's demise, she arranged a transfer of ownership for the villa and the two southern properties. This directive was her own, executed without any falsification." Her tone remained resolute, emphasizing the authenticity of the changes. Then, with a deliberate motion, she introduced a surprising disclosure. "In case of any doubts, I possess a record confession by Madam herself. This was captured before a panel of jurors, at Sahra Madam's specific request."
Grandparents, Father and Mother, Boyle, were stunned to find a surprising video. It was a shock as they never expected Sahra to leave such clever evidence. Stanton felt he might lose everything he'd longed for it the video wasn't dealt with. Without hesitation, he decided to act, determined to eliminate the evidence. Startled, Stanton urgently requested, "Show me the video." He, without any answer, rushed to grab the tabled containing the video, but Leo intervened halfway and stopped him.
With a cold tone, Leo firmly asserted, "This holds immense value as my mother's last gift to me. No one unworthy will lay a finger on it." Hearing his words Stanton was ready to pour his fatherly punishment, but before he could say anything Leo added, "If you insist, we'll watch it on the TV." His voiced resounded with a sense of possession and protection. Unfazed by Stanton's attempt, Leo took the lead and initiated the video on the TV, his demeanor exuding determination and authority.
On the big screen, a striking woman sat gracefully upon the plush sofa, adorned in a rich, dark brown suit that contrasted beautifully against her porcelain complexion. Her chestnut hair cascaded in gentle waves around her shoulders, framing a face marked by deep, enigmatic eyes reminiscent of the profound gaze Leo. Despite her weariness evident in every line etched upon her face, she exuded an aura of irresistible charm and unwavering resilience, A faint yet encouraging smile graced her lips as Sahra spoke tenderly, addressing her son, Leo. "My dear Le," She began, her voice carrying a tone laced with both exhaustion and affection. "I am overjoyed to have you as my son, someone who understands me akin to my own mother. Yet, as a mother myself, all I seem capable of offering is this taxing labor of mine." Her words carried a weight of regret, a sorrowful acknowledgement of her limitations. She added with a shift of smile, "Remember to have vegetables and drink mild constantly. How else will my boy grow strong enough to stand on par with me? Strive to be good and excel in your studies, my boy."
Her countenance softened with innocence as she continued, "Reflecting on your presence in my life, it feels as though you've known me since you entered this world, comprehending and embracing me. As a mother, it's my duty to oversee your education, playtime, nourishment, and all aspects of life. Yet, unexpectedly, it has been you who has cared for me, until now. Without your care, perhaps I wouldn't possess this strength." She expressed an admiration and urgency as she imparted her final plea, "Baby Le, you are a wonderful child. Heed your mother's guidance; it's essential. Forgive your mother." She concluded with a heartfelt plea, the weight of her words echoing the unspoken sacrifices of her mother's love.
With this, it was the end and Stanton was about to say something, but Paul interjected, "this video has been shown to Mr. Leo while he was 7 years old. But the other one has to be shown to him now." Announcing this she showed another video. Leo, once teary-eyed, now wore a demeanor of heightened seriousness and unwavering determination as he watched the new footage.
Sahra again wearing the same dress emerged in the video "My dearest Leo, I know you must harbor anger at my departure, leaving you alone with Stanton. Please find it in your heart to forgive me, my dear. I am drained, lacking the strength to carry on. Your entrance into my life has been a cherished miracle, a wish fulfilled." She sighed but continued, "Presently, words fail me to express fully to my little Leo, but in time, you'll understand your mother's sentiments." Her eyes seemed nostalgic yet tragic for some reasons as she continued to depart everything she needed to say, " When love finds you, seek a woman of strength, one who can guide and temper your spirit. Avoid the path marked by your father's footsteps. Before ever betraying another, recall my fate and let it guide you. Be a noble husband, a nurturing father, and above all, a person of integrity. May be, when you hear me out, you could be married too, and I wish even if my video reach to you late, you won't be diverted to wrong way. I'll dearly miss you, my daughter-in-law, and my grandchildren. Tell them too, that their grandmother and mother-in-law wasn't a bad mother." Her eyes teary as she reached the end of the video. She later added with eyes reddened, "All the adorned villas, crafted by my hands, are now in your name. Live separately from Stanton and Baty's family. Hold my word's close, dear Leo. My love accompanies you, and my words. remember them dearly. I love you."
Silence surrounded the entire room.