"Are you always this rough in your dealings?" he queried.

Alexis smiled while taking her shot.

"For people like him, it's the only way."

She pocketed two balls and then turned to Leonel, patting his face playfully.

“Haven't I always been nice to you?"

Leonel, however, grabbed her hand and pulled her to sit on the edge of the pool table, positioning himself close. His voice was low and hoarse.

“Nice? Every time I kiss you, it feels like you're about to pull out all my hair."

Alexis let out a light chuckle.

“still hung up on that, Mr. Douglas?" she teased.

"Don't take things that happen just once or twice too seriously.

There's nothing left to discuss here. You can leave now. Just send over the contract, and I'll give it another look."

Leonel seized the moment to suggest they have lunch together, but Alexis declined without hesitation, "I'm on a light fast these days."

He appeared skeptical.

Alexis, though slim, clearly maintained her figure through balanced eating and regular exercise. He had a sense of her well-toned body from their past closeness.

Unconcerned with whether Leonel believed her or not, Alexis grew impatient.

She pressed the intercom, signaling her secretary to usher him out.

As she ended the call, Leonel moved to close her office door, locking it with a click.

She watched him, a question in her gaze.

Leonel turned back to her, speaking in a low tone.

"Once my company is more established, I plan to take over Exceed Group."