"Anyway..." Nicholas cleared his throat. "I am not an ungrateful man. Even though I still hate you for taking the woman I love, I am thankful for everything that you did for Sophie... and for Luciel and Jan."
Nicholas looked Leland in the eye and spoke so sincerely. "You have protected the people I love. You accepted them, cared for them and you even raised my sons as your own. I am forever indebted to you and I hope someday I could return the favor."
Leland's heart was stirred. He didn't feel that what he did was anything special. He did raise Luciel and Jan. So what? They were amazing kids and he loved them. Except for the fact that his blood didn't run in their veins, they were as much as his just like little Anne and little Jack.
However, as before, Leland didn't say anything. His focus was now on his wine cup as he continued sipping his wine nonchalantly.
