In the end, Alexis' voice grew hoarse.

Once they were done having sex, she turned her back to him and inhaled deeply.

Leonel, damp with sweat, stuck close behind her. He kissed the sweat off her skin and asked, “Why did you feel like crying at dinner?"

Alexis was caught off guard. She hadn't expected him to revisit the question.

He turned her to face him. As he basked in the moonlight, he kissed her tenderly.

His voice low and enticing as he inquired, "I couldn't ask this in front of Evelyn. But Alexis, was it because of me?"

They had hardly discussed the reasons behind her departure after reuniting.

Yet, they both understood the underlying issues they had.

And now, he was broaching the subject. Did he want to talk about it?

Alexis lacked the energy for such a conversation.

But she knew Leonel wouldn't let her avoid it. He wanted clarity tonight.

So she didn't evade and admitted, “If it weren't for Serenity, things would be much better between us."

Having said that, Alexis felt drained.

What was done was done. They were together now for Evelyn's sake.

Dredging up the past would only complicate things further. But Alexis knew she hadn't always been this way.

Motherhood had changed her. It became her vulnerability.

Since returning, her sole focus was on Leonel's ability to help cure Evelyn. They needed another child for that.

But the girl had grown fond of Leonel.

Regardless of her own feelings, Alexis had to consider her daughter's.

Speaking calmly, Alexis was surprised by her own gentleness, a change she never anticipated.