"No need," Alexis dismissed the offer with a wry smile.

"If you injure your hand again, will I have to be your lifelong caretaker?"

Undeterred, Leonel followed Alexis into the kitchen. Her lithe figure moved gracefully as she prepared their midnight snack, her back a testament to its elegance.

He propped himself against the kitchen counter, observing her silently.

Had he not been so foolish in the past, that might have been their everyday life with Alexis. They would each pursue their own careers, work through the day, return home in the evening, and share the task of cooking. Although most of the time, it would likely fall to him.

Perhaps they would occasionally work late, and then unwind together in front of the television when they had free time.

They would have their own children, preferably a boy and a girl.

Leonel swallowed hard, unable to resist uttering, “Wouldn't that have been nice?"

Alexis expertly sliced through vegetables with a measured hand.

She cast her eyes downward, a gentle smile gracing her lips.

"You wish. Leonel, this is just temporary. Once your hand heals, you'll have a legion of servants at your beck and call in your home."

“What if I only want you?"

However, Leonel closed the distance, his breath against her ear as he whispered, akin to the delicate caress of feathers upon her neck.

Alexis paused in her task, taken aback.

Before she could muster a response, he gently swiveled her around.

Her face was nestled against the side of his shoulder.

Her senses were inundated with the scent of his crisp, white shirt and the faint stubble of his newly grown beard. It sent a shiver down her spine.

“Leonel, what are you up to?" she asked, her voice betraying a hint of excitement.

"May I kiss you?"

Their lips met in a natural embrace.