Her capacity to love was limited, but her affection for Leonel was undeniable... It was a difficult situation, with both needing to give in a bit.

Sitting on the sofa, Alexis gazed out of the French window into the night.

On the surface, she had it all. She had stunning looks and wealth beyond the average person's reach. But what many didn't realize was that, despite being a Fowler, Alexis' path had been much rockier compared to her siblings Marcus and Elva.

Alexis gazed at her flat stomach, her thoughts heavy.

She couldn't even choose to have a baby, and though it wasn't Leonel's fault, the feeling of sadness lingered.

She toyed with the idea of lighting a cigarette; she didn't smoke, but craved the scent. However, she resisted. Leonel disliked it, and she was willing to compromise for their relationship.

Perhaps they could discuss having a baby later.

In her heart, Alexis knew she was steadfast in her principles, yet she found herself unusually forgiving towards Leonel. It wasn't just love. It reminded her of her mother's words about their exceptional bond.

After spending about thirty minutes in the study, Alexis opened the door.

Leonel was still there in the living room, not yet showered, smoking on the sofa.

His surprise at seeing her was evident.

He didn't expect her to come out so soon.

Alexis approached, gently removed the cigarette from his lips, and softly chided, “You told me not to smoke. Why are you smoking?"

Leonel remained silent, simply gazing up at her.

Eventually, he drew her close, burying his face in her hair, and whispered, "I'm sorry. Alexis... I'm sorry.”

Alexis' heart ached with the weight of her sacrifices for Leonel.

Resting against his shoulder, her voice tinged with emotion, she finally said, "Leonel, you've captured my heart for a lifetime."

Leonel gently patted her back, saying with a grin, "Feels good to be stuck with me, doesn't it?"

Alexis responded with a smile.

Everything seemed settled, yet neither Alexis nor Leonel brought up marriage again. They were content just living together and enjoying each other's company.