Alexis glanced at the clothes she held from where she had shed them.

After a moment, she questioned, “Are you seeking the truth or a fabrication?"

In a husky tone, Leonel asserted, "The truth."

Facing him, Alexis hesitated before speaking. “Calvin doesn't have much time left. He doesn't have any family around, and even if there were, they're only interested in his millions. Leonel... I won't justify the difference between Calvin and Serenity, but I want you to know I didn't wrong you during our time together."

Leonel inquired, "And now?"

He pressed further, "Now that we're married, will you continue..."

Setting aside the clothes, Alexis redirected the conversation. "Let's have dinner."

As she walked past Leonel, he seized her wrist, drawing her into a warm embrace.

Though he avoided intimate contact, he gently kissed her ear. “I believe in you."

A subtle tremor passed through Alexis’ body.

Swiftly releasing her, Leonel spoke gently. "Come on. Dinner's ready.

Let's head downstairs. Evelyn must be eager, and you're well aware of her temper. She's just like you were as a child."

Alexis offered a smile and trailed him down the stairs.

The meal proceeded without any hitches.

After dinner, seeking to make amends for her recent absence, Alexis personally attended to her daughter's bath.

She then went the extra mile, tucking little Evelyn in and reading her a story until she fell into a peaceful slumber.

Leaning against Alexis, Evelyn murmured drowsily, “Mommy, you smell nice."

Alexis responded with a gentle smile, extending her hand to caress Evelyn's face.

Obediently, Evelyn shut her eyes.

Having also showered, Alexis, feeling a bit fatigued, leaned against the bed's headrest and drifted into sleep.