With a soft chuckle, Alexis retorted, "Hey! You're quite a demanding guest. At least you have something to eat."

Leonel's gaze deepened.

After a brief silence, he said softly, “Once my hand recovers, I'll prepare meals for you."

Alexis didn't buy into his words; she let out a snort and countered, “Once your hand heals, it'll be time for you to head back."

Leonel played along, posing a hypothetical.

“What if my hand never recovers?"

With a sly grin, she shot back, "Then I'll marry a random man just to keep you jealous sick."

Leonel continued to savor the noodles. As he neared the end of his meal, he suddenly remarked, “Alexis, you've changed quite a Lot since childhood."

Alexis finished the meal up to the last bite.

With a faint smile, she replied, "You're right. People change. You, however, have evolved into something rather repulsive."

Leonel offered a gentle smile.

Alexis playfully kicked his foot.

"Time to wash those dishes. Don't think your nimble hand gets you off the hook. I won't pamper you."

He teased, "So, all your spoiling is reserved for Calvin, isn't it?"

Alexis rose gracefully, flipping her long hair with flair.

"That's right. If it bothers you, feel free to leave. The door's to your left."

With that, she headed straight for a refreshing shower, exhaustion weighing heavily on her.

With one hand, Leonel managed to wash the two plates, punctuating his task with the occasional puff of a cigarette. Alexis emerged from the bathroom, tossing a bathrobe in his direction.

"Make do with this for now. Tomorrow, you can arrange for some clothes to be brought over.

Oh, and, you'll be in the guest room on the right."