By the floor-to-ceiling window, Alexis stood, vigorously rubbing her face while muttering, "Ensnared by desire! Shame on you, Alexis!"

Upon Leonel's return, it was already late.

He consumed all the leftovers Alexis left behind, proceeded to wash the dishes, and took out the trash. Alexis emerged from the study as he completed these tasks. The corners of her eyes displayed a hint of redness. She uttered softly, "Leonel, you needn't be overly kind to me. We are..."

Leonel still had a cigarette in his mouth, but it remained unlit.

Clearly, he intended to smoke outside. In that moment, he removed the cigarette from his lips and asked gently, "What's wrong? Have you been crying?"