She stopped resisting. Instead, she was gently pressed against the car as he leaned in. The minty taste lingered in her mouth, slowly eroding her senses.

With the kiss, Leonel's warmth enveloped her, his hand on her face burning hotter.

Alexis just let him kiss her, a rare moment of not turning him down.

After a while, Leonel released her, his breath warm against her neck.

"What if I tell you Dad didn't follow us out? Regret letting me kiss you?"

Instantly, her body tensed.

Leonel smirked.

Silent on the way back, they pulled into the yard.

Ollie, their dog, bounded around happily, wagging his tail.

“Daddy !"

Evelyn dashed out and clung to Leonel's leg. He scooped her up instantly. She was around ten and not light, making it a bit of a struggle.

Before long, Evelyn asked to be put down.

She was growing up and didn't fancy being carried by her dad anymore.

Holding Ollie proudly, she announced, “Daniel aced the chemistry experiment competition in the city, Dad!"

Leonel glanced at Alexis, saying softly, "That boy's something else!"

Alexis also ruffled Evelyn's hair affectionately.

For the sake of the kids, they'd privately agreed to keep up appearances as a loving couple.

Leonel draped his arm around her and they strolled into the house together.

When praised, Daniel, a first-grader, stayed cool. "It wasn't a tough one!"

Evelyn, with a pout, sighed. "Why are you so smart, Danny?"