He'd raped her.

The next morning, Leonel woke feeling drained.

Last night's indulgence, mixed with alcohol and passion, had left him exhausted.

The bed was empty; Alexis must've risen early, leaving it cold and hard.

In a daze, Leonel stared out the window.

Rain drizzled outside, dampening the tree branches.

In the bedroom, the door creaked open, revealing Evelyn's gentle face.

The little girl rushed to the bed, embracing Leonel. His gaze softened as he looked at her; Evelyn was a spitting image of Alexis.

He ruffled her hair gently, asking, “Where's your mother?"

"She went to visit Calvin at the cemetery," Evelyn replied sweetly.

Suddenly, her expression saddened. Leaning on Leonel's shoulder, she whispered, “Mommy wouldn't let me go, but I miss Calvin too... Daddy, is he in heaven? Will he come back to see me?"

Upon hearing her words, Leonel's heart ached.

He managed a smile, comforting her by saying, "Yes, Calvin's in a better place now."

At his words, Evelyn hugged him tightly, nearly in tears.

Leonel patted her back gently, saying nothing more. After a while, the little girl seemed to feel better and dashed out of the room.

Once she left, Leonel remained lost in thought for a while before heading to the bathroom.

In the mirror, his handsome face looked worn, like a defeated man.

Indeed, he'd been defeated by a man who wasn't even alive anymore.

No matter his efforts, Alexis still visited Calvin's grave.

Staring at his reflection, Leonel smirked bitterly. Suddenly, he punched the mirror, shattering it.