"If you even think of laying a hand on me, I'll ensure you won't be able to touch a woman again for the rest of your life."

Unfazed, he drew nearer.

Despite Alexis's tall stature, Leonel, at 6.1 feet, easily towered over her, his broad shoulders making her seem petite when he cradled her in his arms. She endured in silence, discovering that the warmth of another body in her bed was oddly comforting.

Turning away, she uttered something biting.

Leonel leaned in, resting his chin on her shoulder, and whispered, “If you desire it, I can oblige at any moment.”

Alexis couldn't help but sneer.

She wielded a sharp tongue, yet her body betrayed her true intentions.

In the depths of slumber, she turned and nestled into his embrace.

Just like the days of their childhood, she clung to his waist.

Leonel remained uncertain if he had really heard Alexis call his name.

Her voice had been a faint murmur, the words escaping his comprehension, He strained to listen, but her voice fell silent.

The night stretched on.

Yet, his wakefulness was not driven solely by desire.

But it was mainly because he had once again held her in his arms.

Even if it meant resorting to unsavory tactics, he had, at last, embraced her once more. In the shrouded darkness, Leonel flexed his injured hand.

To his relief, it remained intact and agile.

By morning, when Alexis awoke, Leonel had vanished.

She rubbed her eyes and sat upright.

Inside the apartment, a profound silence prevailed.

Had her rude attitude led to his abrupt departure?