Chapter: 2794
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?"
Alexis felt uneasy.
"No!"
Leonel approached, extending his hand to gently stroke her head. He then said softly, “Alexis, you don't have to be strong all the time.
You're a girl; and just like Olivia and Elva, you deserve to be pampered."
Alexis considered mentioning that she was the eldest.
Leonel kissed her and added, "Plus, I'm a few months older than you!
It's my duty to look after you."
Alexis averted her gaze.
After a moment, she spoke softly, "But what about all those years?
Where were you? Leonel, curse you!"
Her emotions surged unexpectedly.
Alexis prided herself on being rational, but in that moment, she couldn't contain her feelings.
The stronger her attraction to Leonel became, the more she found herself fixating on the past.
Observing her reddened eyes, Leonel swallowed visibly. Lacking an explanation, he simply enveloped her in his arms, planting kisses on her hair and whispering softly, “I'm sorry, Alexis. I'm sincerely sorry!"
He whispered, “Henceforth, I won't depart again.