He insisted, "Maybe it's you who doesn't care anymore, not me. Alexis... It's been three years since Calvin's death. Despite my mistake in sending him away and hiding his death, I've been devoted to you, the kids, and your folks, haven't I? Say all that means something."

Instead of feeling touched, Alexis stared at him, a swirl of turmoil within her.

Years ago, she'd laid everything on the line for him. Yet, all he wanted was his freedom. Then, he realized his heart was with her and was looking to reconcile. Despite their long separation, she was open to giving them another shot.

ALL she yearned for was simplicity in life.

In the past, she'd have scorned herself for having such low self-esteem.

But Leonel desired something beyond simplicity. That was why Leonel harbored jealousy towards Calvin, and he wanted Calvin out of Alexis' life. However, To her family, Calvin had been much like Marcus.

But Leonel had decided to send Calvin away. Tragically, Calvin ended up dying alone abroad.

She didn't even get the chance to attend his funeral!

This thought tormented Alexis, but her hands were tied. She and Leonel shared two kids, their parents, and even ran the family business together. Their lives were deeply intertwined.

Cutting ties with him was out of the question, unless Leonel opted for a divorce.

Alexis never made a formal request, but facing Leonel, she realized she just couldn't bring herself to love him again.

She fixed her gaze on Leonel and started gravely, “If you're truly at your limit with this, maybe it's time we..."

But before she could get the words out, Leonel abruptly clicked open her seatbelt and pulled her onto his Lap. They were both quite tall, but luckily, the car had enough room to accommodate them.

"Have you lost it, Leonel? What if the servants catch us? Ever thought about my reputation?"

Leonel trailed his hand down her side, giving her a playful pinch.

His gaze was intense, and his voice was rough with a hint of a growl.

"No one's around to see. The house is ours for the day."

He pressed his lips to hers, a fiery kiss that spoke volumes.

As he did, he daringly lifted Alexis' skirt, desire clear in his eyes.

Alexis, though, wasn't feeling it.