In Alexis' memory, Serenity was beautiful and intelligent, but the woman before her now sat in a wheelchair, attired modestly, indicating a state of well-being.

An awkward atmosphere enveloped them.

Eventually, Alexis broke the silence. "It's been a while!"

Serenity managed a forced smile, stating, "Yes, it has been a while!

Alexis, you're as beautiful as ever, still the focal point of attention."

The remark carried a slightly jarring tone.

Alexis chuckled. "Oh, come on, the focal point of attention at this age? Serenity, you've developed a penchant for humor! So, would you like to stay and have dinner with us? Leonel is quite the chef."

Serenity scrutinized Alexis' still flushed face.

Suddenly, she grasped that she had interrupted something intimate between Leonel and Alexis moments ago.

A shadow fell over Serenity's face.

She wheeled herself. "No, thank you! I'm here to drop off some documents for Darwin. The housekeeper has prepared dinner, and the driver is waiting downstairs."

Abruptly, she turned to Leonel and said, “Could you escort me downstairs?"

Leonel lit a cigarette. "Certainly! I'll accompany you downstairs."

He turned to look at Alexis, who offered a faint smile, "You go ahead!"

With Leonel's departure, Alexis' smile vanished entirely. She walked to the floor-to-ceiling window and stood in silence. After a while, Serenity and Leonel emerged at the base of the building.

Serenity hesitated before getting into the car.

She engaged in what seemed like an argument with Leonel.

Lowering her gaze, Alexis smiled faintly.

In the room, the pack of cigarettes Leonel left behind was still on the table. Alexis' hand trembled as she picked one out, placed it between her lips, lit it, and took a long drag.

The smoke seeped into her Lungs, inducing a slight burning sensation and jolting her awake.