Three months later...
It had been three months since Marvin and Mrs. Rena had settled into the village life; to suffice their daily needs, Mrs. Rena found herself peddling goods around the village in search of a humble meal.
Despite living a simple life in a shabby house, they found themselves happier than ever before, a stark contrast to the misery that permeated their existence at the Leonardo Mansion.
"Mama... mama..." Marvin ran joyously because today he had achieved a perfect score of 100 on his math test, eager to show his mother.
But upon his arrival home, he discovered they had a visitor; Mrs. Rena had a younger brother, a man named Uncle Theo. The sibling relationship was strained, as Mrs. Rena disapproved of her brother delving into the glitzy world of business.
"That despicable Rama, how dare he cast out Rena and Marvin. I'll teach him a lesson," Uncle Theo declared angrily.
"Don't, Theo. I'm at peace with this life now. I no longer care about that man," she pleaded, her voice betraying her distress.
"But he went too far, sis. You played a role in building Leon Group as well."
"I care nothing for the company. I beg you, don't interfere in my affairs," Mrs. Rena implored, desiring nothing more than a tranquil existence with Marvin, no matter how meager.
With a deep sigh, Uncle Theo resigned to her wishes, "Fine then, but come with me, you and Marvin; stay at my house."
"I'm sorry, Theo. I am content here. I just want a peaceful life with Marvin," she refused graciously.
"Father did care about you, you know. He just didn't like your association with Rama. I think you're more entitled to father's inheritance."
She shook her head, "Keep it for Marvin when he grows up. For now, I just want to find solace here."
Reluctantly, Uncle Theo nodded in agreement.
...****************...
Meanwhile, at the Leonardo Mansion, a lavish party unfolded to celebrate the birthday of the beloved daughter, Nadine Leonardo.
The guest list was extensive, with Mr. Rama inviting business associates and family to the grand event.
"Your daughter is exquisite, Mr. Rama. How about we pair Nadine with my son, Damar?" suggested Mr. Dafa, a fellow businessman.
Mr. Rama chuckled, "Certainly, I'd be delighted to have you as in-laws."
Unaware of the implications, six-year-old Nadine felt uncomfortable in the midst of the festivities, especially dissatisfied with the cumbersome dress she wore.
Sonya smirked quietly, her aspiration to become Mrs. Leonardo—and to align with wealthy entrepreneurs—finally within reach.
"Mom, I'm hot. Can I change out of this dress?" Nadine complained.
With a glare, Sonya pinched Nadine's back, chiding, "Foolish child. Quiet, do you want a punishment?"
"Shh... argh, please Mom, it hurts," Nadine winced in pain.
"What's wrong, Nadine?"
The sudden voice of Mr. Rama surprised them; he would not tolerate anyone hurting his precious daughter.
"Oh, I was just fixing the zipper on Nadine's dress," Sonya lied smoothly, feigning helpfulness. "Right, dear?" she asked Nadine.
"Y-yes, that's right, Dad." Nadine felt compelled to nod.
Laughing it off, Mr. Rama said, "I thought you were in pain, sweetheart."
Assistant Dareen's arrival at the birthday celebration drew their attention.
"Excuse me, Sir, but there's an important matter I need to discuss with you," Dareen spoke to Mr. Rama.
"Alright, let's talk in my office."
Curiosity piqued, Sonya elected to eavesdrop on the exchange between her husband and his assistant from outside the office door.
"Lawyer Dicky informed me that your divorce with Mrs. Rena will soon be finalized, Sir."
"Good, I have no more need for her."
"But as you know, Sir, Leon Group was built by both you and your first wife, which means upon divorce, an equitable division of assets is required," Dareen reminded.
Sighing at the thought, yet considering Marvin was his child, Mr. Rama felt it just to allocate a portion of his wealth to his ex-wife for Rena and Marvin's welfare—it was a way to atone for past wrongs. "Fine, arrange it until it's settled."
Annoyed, Sonya grimaced at her husband's decision. Silently, she slipped away, seeking seclusion.
"Dammit, I can't let this happen; I must act," Sonya muttered to herself, pacing back and forth by the pool behind the mansion.
Remembering someone, she hastily made a call. "Hello, Erza."
"What is it, dear?" Erza responded swiftly. "When shall we meet again? I miss you dearly."
"I will schedule our next meeting. Right now, things are critical."
"What do you mean?"
"The old fool plans to give part of his fortune to his first wife. We must take action. It'd be better if you just eliminated Rena and her child."
"Hmm... alright, my dear, don't fret, taking care of such matters is easy for me."
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