They maintained a standoff, spending a sleepless night. With the arrival of dawn, Alexis sat up and contacted her assistant to arrange her discharge.

Concluding the call, Leonel's gaze lingered on her, profound and filled with unspoken words.

He whispered, "Alexis, it's not what you think between her and me.

We dated for only three months. We separated because we were not suitable for each other. She subsequently married Darwin, and now we're just friends."

Alexis had no desire to hear any excuses.

She draped her coat over her shoulders, approached the window, and opened it, gazing outside. She said in a hushed tone, “Leonel, I've extended all my tolerance to you, but you've reciprocated with what truly disgusted me.

Whether you and Serenity are still entangled or not doesn't truly matter.

What matters is that you have her photo on your desk. What really matters is that you slapped me because of her. What else do you have to say for yourself? Do you think so little of me? That I'm unwanted by everyone?"

Finishing her statement, Alexis steadied her forehead.

She still experienced slight dizziness.

Leonel slowly approached from behind, holding her shoulders and resting his head against hers. “Alexis, forgive me this once! I can't imagine my life without you."

After drifting for 8 years, he had come to realize what he truly desired.

He couldn't comprehend why, but in the face of Alexis' harsh words, he responded impulsively. He found himself unable to justify his actions, and his sole request was for her forgiveness.

However, Alexis gently pushed him aside.

There was nothing more to be said between them.

In that instant, her assistant entered, pausing awkwardly as they felt the tension in the air.

Alexis said in a soft tone, "Please arrange for my discharge."

The assistant, observing her expression, hesitated. “Miss Fowler, What happened to your face?"

Alexis replied with indifference, "A dog bit me!"

With that, she grabbed her bag and proceeded directly to the door.