Drawing in a long, steadying breath, Leonel declared, "I won't repeat my actions. I'm not going to force myself on you in the future.”

He withdrew from her, rising to his feet with deliberate slowness. As the room plunged into darkness, their gazes locked, both reflecting a mix of confusion and clarity.

He broke the silence. "I'll relocate to the guest room. Divorce, however, is not an option."

With a final note of resolve, he asserted, "You will remain Mrs. Douglas for life."

Alexis remained silent, her form motionless, even as he exited. Once alone, a solitary tear traced her cheek.