A graceful elongation characterized the line of her legs as she stooped.

Admirably beautiful were her calves, and the morning saw his suit pants brushing against her delicate stockings.

Navigating a shopping cart, Leonel positioned himself behind her.

Upon straightening, Alexis caught sight of Leonel.

It had been a considerable time since their last encounter. Their interaction had been limited to sporadic messages from Leonel.

Alexis fixed her gaze on his countenance.

Disregarding the injury, Leonel lightly traced his face with his hand.

“Dad delivered a blow to my face," he uttered with apparent indifference.

Intuitively, Alexis sensed it.

With a subtle nod, she traversed past him, assuming the demeanor of a casual acquaintance.

Intercepting her, Leonel seized her arm.

Turning his head, he whispered, "I don't think you'll forget. I can't believe you'll forget the days we spent together and the times we roamed around here. I also don't believe that Calvin can completely take my place.”

Lowering her head, Alexis replied softly, “Life must go on."

Despite his scrutiny, she delicately extricated his hand. "There are people here. I can't afford to lose my composure."

Having expressed herself, she departed.

In a daze, Leonel lingered. Eventually, he pivoted and called out louder, “I'll be at the apartment. Will you join me?"

Alexis hesitated briefly before quickening her pace.

Observing her retreating figure, Leonel swallowed hard.

He wasn't in the mood for shopping. After grabbing a few items, he headed to the checkout counter to pay. While waiting in line, he noticed Calvin, and to his surprise, Alexis was standing next to him.

Calvin glanced at her, smiled softly and then picked up two boxes of condoms from the shelf.