Calvin was also enduring his own struggle. He fought through the pain, determined to stay alive, partly because he didn't trust Leonel.

He wanted to ensure that Evelyn was well taken care of with his own eyes.

After a moment, Calvin gently urged her, “Go back. Don't be upset because of me anymore."

He silenced any attempt she made to speak further.

Arriving back at the villa around 9 pm, Alexis stepped out of the car and immediately bumped into a solid figure.

The familiar warmth of his breath made it clear it was Leonel holding her.

In the dimly lit front yard, their faces were obscured, but their proximity was unmistakable. Feeling uncomfortable, Alexis took a step back, and Leonel released her.

He lit a cigarette, holding it idly as he asked with a hint of irritation, "You went to see Calvin at the hospital?"

“Yes, I did," Alexis responded.

“Do you also want to control this, Leonel?"

Leonel didn't answer her question directly. Instead, he pointed out, "It's late. Evelyn's asleep. Mrs. Douglas, remember you're married now. If you're so concerned about your former lover, think about your husband's patience and Evelyn missing her mother."

Leonel's words were laced with sarcasm.

Alexis brushed past him, saying, "I'll be more careful in the future.

To your satisfaction, Mr. Douglas."

As she spoke, she found herself pressed against the car door.

Leonel extinguished his cigarette and turned to look at her. In the moonlight, her face appeared pale, the shadows under her eyes hinting at sleepless nights and tears shed that afternoon.

Leonel touched her face, his voice low. "Do you know what makes a man truly satisfied?"

Alexis’ expression darkened.

She surveyed Leonel from head to toe and replied, “I recall you're supposed to abstain for a week. Besides, didn't we marry to have a child? I don't see the need for us to be intimate before my next ovulatory period."

Leonel's gaze lingered on Alexis's face for a long moment before he chuckled, a hint of mockery in his voice.