She closed her eyes, resigning herself to let him stay if he was so determined to keep her company.

As she drifted off, her head rested on his sturdy arm.

The soft, pink lamp light cast a gentle glow on her face, bringing out traces of her youthful self.

"Alexis," Leonel murmured, leaning in to kiss her tenderly.

Alexis’ eyes fluttered open, but before she could utter a word, Leonel had already taken her hand, their fingers intertwining.

The kiss was tender yet unrestrained, bridging the distance between them.

As she gazed up at Leonel, the reality of their closeness in this childhood space hit her.

They were together in the very room where they had once innocently shared a bed as kids.

Her usually assertive lips were slightly parted, a contrast to her typical demeanor. Leonel, unable to resist, kissed her repeatedly, each kiss more fervent than the last.

The small bed creaked under his movements.

He wasn't planning to take things too far in such a setting. His kisses and touches were merely meant to bring her comfort.

As the night deepened, Alexis gently pushed him away, turning her back to him in silence.

Leonel didn't say anything. He carefully adjusted her nightgown, and then wrapped his arms around her from behind. His body radiated warmth, which she could feel against her back.

Later, as Alexis drifted into a half-sleep, Leonel whispered into her neck, “Alexis, I really regret it. I'm sorry.”

But he knew his apologies for the hurt and disappointment he had caused her were futile. As she had said, eight years was long enough to diminish even the deepest feelings.

Beyond her disdain for him, there might also be a trace of regret.

Leonel's voice was filled with earnest longing.

“I want to start over with you. Alexis, please, give me one more chance."

Leonel waited with bated breath for her response.

After a tense two minutes, Alexis finally broke the silence.