Alexis would take her law firm and the Exceed Group, while Leonel would retain his company.

She didn't claim all the real estate purchased post-marriage, only the current home and their two children.

Leonel lit up a cigarette, contemplating their end through the wisps of smoke.

But, this conclusion was Alexis’ choice, not his.

He was not on board.

Leonel reached for his phone and called Alexis. She picked up promptly, her tone calm. "You're back from your trip?"

Ironically, he detected a hint of warmth in her voice.

Leonel cut to the chase. “I'm not agreeing to the divorce."

Following a brief silence, Alexis queried, “What do you propose?"

“I'll sign if I can have the kids. If not, forget about it."

Leonel was aware Alexis wouldn't part with the kids yet still laid out this term, clearly not ready to let her go. “Try propose something realistic," Alexis suggested quietly.

Leonel scoffed, "What does '‘realistic' even mean to you? Alexis, really, you're okay with me walking away with just a dog? Is that ‘realistic’ to you? Am I just like that dog we have at home?"

Alexis felt he was anything but calm.

“Let's discuss this once you've calmed down," she suggested.

Leonel ended the call abruptly and extinguished his cigarette in the ashtray.

Yet, he soon lit another.

His phone rang again. Assuming it was Alexis, he answered immediately, “Listen, no divorce unless I get the kids. Mrs. Douglas... Just drop it."

But the voice he anticipated didn't come.

Rather, a gentle, cautious voice replied, "Mr. Douglas, I'm sorry. It's me."

Leonel glanced at his phone in surprise.