The aroma of food roused her. The room was lit with a soft yellow glow from the bedside lamp, which made it hard for her to know if it was dusk or dawn.

The sound of footsteps echoed through the hallway, and Leonel appeared, leaning casually against the doorframe.

"I bet you've missed homemade food while you were away!" he said softly, radiating warmth and kindness.

Dressed in a crisp white shirt and black pants, he looked perfectly handsome, as though he had always lived there like this.

Alexis gazed at him.

Her expression showed a mix of confusion and surprise.

Leonel stepped closer, bent his head, and kissed her softly.

“Are you speechless because you're surprised to see me?"

Alexis embraced him.

Her long, dark hair flowed over her shoulders as she leaned back.

She looked both graceful and alluring.

“Why are you home?" she asked.

"Do you wish I wasn't?" he replied.

Alexis yearned for his presence, but she couldn't voice her feelings.

With a smile, Leonel said, "I'll head out after you have dinner."

His directness left Alexis feeling unsure internally. She struggled to express her desire for him to stay.

Asking him to stay would imply her acceptance of a relationship with him.

She was still undecided.

Finally, she quietly said, "I need to shower first.”

Leonel responded with a faint smile.