Evelyn rolled over and laid her hand on Ollie. The puppy growled but didn't pull away. Eventually, Alexis reached out again, this time stroking its fur gently.

In the evening, Evelyn awoke.

Dressed in white one-piece pajamas, her small body contrasted with her large head.

She rubbed her eyes and sat up, feeling a bit scared in the unfamiliar surroundings. However, the puppy beside her barked reassuringly.

Evelyn picked it up, placing it on the bed, which brought her a sense of warmth.

In the living room, Alexis was engrossed in a book. Hearing the bark, she quickly went to the bedroom. Evelyn, holding Ollie close, softly called out, "Mom."

Alexis approached Evelyn, kissing her gently. "Baby, it's time for your medicine," she said softly.

Evelyn frowned at the thought of the bitter medicine but remained cooperative.

Clutching the puppy, she said, "Ollie will have medicine too."

Alexis, with patience, explained, "Ollie is a puppy. Puppies don't need medicine."

"What if it gets sick?" Evelyn asked.

While Alexis pondered a response, Calvin entered with the medicine and a glass of Evelyn's favorite orange juice.

He sat on the bed's edge, lifting Evelyn and the dog onto his lap.

Evelyn wrapped her arms around Calvin, leaning into his embrace as she took her medicine.

After a while of coaxing from Calvin, he looked at Alexis and smiled warmly. "She's such a good girl."

Alexis returned the smile. "She listens to you more."

As they spoke, someone else appeared at the door.

Alexis looked up to see Leonel. He had likely entered without announcing himself, as he used to do. He didn't expect to walk in on such a scene.

The intimacy between Alexis and Calvin was evident, far exceeding what Leonel had expected.

They exchanged tender smiles, resembling a loving couple.