“Are you avoiding me, Alexis?

Is the prospect of living together as newlyweds unappealing to you?

Does our marriage hold no significance? Do you still feel single?

Alexis felt a hint of helplessness. “No, Leonel. If you prefer me not to go, I'll stay at home."

Recognizing her compromise stemmed from a desire to avoid conflict, Alexis acknowledged her limited strength.

Her focus was on Evelyn's illness, Calvin's health, and the impending arrival of another child. Managing a relationship at the same time seemed overwhelming.

She was simply hoping to embrace a peaceful life.

Unfortunately, Leonel struggled to grasp her emotional state. In his mind, Alexis remained a reflection of the past, and he failed to recognize the significant changes she had undergone.

With those words, Alexis reclined in her seat, embracing silence.

Leonel, too, fell silent.

An hour later, the car came to a halt in the villa's parking lot.

Peering through the windshield, they observed an excited Evelyn emerging from the house, her steps somewhat unsteady.

Asserting herself, Alexis queried, "Leonel, can we put an end to our disagreements?"

Concerned about shielding Evelyn from their conflicts, Alexis admitted to her weariness as well.

Leonel remained silent, offering neither affirmation nor denial. He opened the door, stepped out of the car, stooped down, and Lifted Evelyn, delicately placing her on Alexis’ lap.

Embracing Alexis, Evelyn softly uttered, "Mom."

In a tender moment, Alexis kissed Evelyn and inquired about her week in her absence.

Sheepishly, Evelyn confessed in Alexis' ear, "It was wonderful!

I really like daddy a lot."

Acknowledging Leonel's prowess in caring for Evelyn, Alexis noted that he surpassed even Calvin in attending to her needs.