With a rip, Alexis' dress was torn off and tossed aside.

Leonel, looking smug, kissed her aggressively. "No matter what you threaten, you're not getting away."

With that, he forced himself on her.

Late into the night, the room felt colder, the light harsher. In that lavish bedroom, Alexis endured Leonel's assault, his relentless pounding leaving her trembling.

In this way, he kept torturing her and was unwilling to stop for a long time.

It wasn't until 4 a.m. that the torment finally ceased.

Exhausted, Leonel collapsed on the bed, breathing heavily.

After a long silence, he turned to Alexis, wanting to speak.

Bruises marred Alexis' wrists and body. She avoided Leonel's gaze, pulling the quilt tightly around herself.

Talking or showering felt like too much effort.

She wished Leonel would just vanish.

Leonel, wide awake after their intense encounter, reached for Alexis, burying his face in her neck.

He felt wetness.

Was she crying?

In a hoarse voice, he murmured, “I'm sorry, Alexis."

Alexis gave no response, turning away. Watching her, Leonel pondered.

Finally, he sat up, silent, and lit a cigarette.

After a drag, he spoke with difficulty. "Please, don't go to the cemetery tomorrow."

Alexis remained silent, her eyes closed.

Leonel had crossed a line that night, destroying what remained of their marriage. He'd forced himself on her before, but never like this.