Leonel paid the bill and followed, carrying the groceries and settling in beside her. He then noticed a faint scent of smoke lingered in the car.

Did Alexis smoke while she waited?

Leonel often felt powerless, unsure of how to regain her affection.

Alexis could have anything she desired. If she wanted a man, she could easily find one.

It all hinged on her mood.

Unexpectedly, Alexis lowered her guard for the first time. She began, “Sorry, I shouldn't have said those things. It's all in the past.

You're right that I still have feelings for you, but I genuinely can't find a reason for us to be together. We're both adults. We should act more maturely. I don't want to deceive you, nor do I seek revenge."

Her voice carried a trace of weariness.

“Leonel, I just want to lead a slightly better life!"

She sighed and added, “I have my parents and siblings aside from you."

Leonel's complexion paled progressively. Anxiously, he added, “But you're everything to me!"

“And who brought us to this point?"

Alexis let out a bitter laugh, turning her head.

“Let's stop blaming each other. Once this half-month is over, you move out. Let's act like nothing transpired between us. It's the best choice for both of us."

Leonel fell into silence.

Once back home, Alexis secluded herself in the study.

Behind the desk, she opened the drawer and retrieved a photograph.

It was a snapshot of a sixteen-year-old Leonel and Alexis.

They sat on the grass, Alexis embracing him from behind, her chin resting on his shoulder.

They held hands, radiating youthful smiles.