Leonel was perilously close to being driven to death by her mouth.

Deep down, he didn't truly buy into her words.

His jealousy toward Calvin was undeniable, but he still possessed some semblance of sound judgment. He knew that, within her heart, Alexis still held some affection for him.

Even if she refused to acknowledge it.

But Alexis had no desire to prolong this conversation with him. She briskly pushed him aside and ascended the staircase at a leisurely pace. Leonel made no attempt to stop her.

He had no intention of sparking a fight with her at home.

He retreated to his room to change his trousers. Just as he was on the brink of descending the stairs, the sound of a car engine starting reached his ears.

He ventured out onto the balcony and observed Alexis driving away.

Leonel stood there in silence, watching until her taillights vanished into the distance. After a considerable duration, he took out a cigarette and lit it.

Alexis didn't return home for the subsequent week.

When Waylen called her, she simply chuckled it off, offering various excuses about being swamped.

Following the call, Waylen remarked to his wife and Leonel, "Looks like we have a phantom haunting our home; that's why she refuses to return."

Leonel wordlessly served them their meals.

Waylen contemplated saying more but ultimately opted against it.

Their next encounter came yet another week later.

Duefron's weather had grown milder, and the nights were no Longer bitterly cold.

Alexis had indulged in some wine.

As she alighted from the car, her briefcase in hand, she exhibited a slight wobble, prompting her assistant to offer support.

“Take it slow, Miss Fowler."

Alexis dismissed the gesture with a wave.