Evelyn's voice was low as she sought confirmation. “Dad, is what they're saying true?"

A pang of sadness struck Leonel.

He brushed her hair softly and after a pause assured her, “Your mom and I will stay together. You and Daniel will have us both as you grow."

The tension eased from Evelyn's shoulders, trusting her father's word.

Daniel, having overheard, let go of the tension in his own body and refocused on his studies, later even venturing into learning computer programming on his own.

On the ground floor of their home, as Leonel departed, Alexis directed a servant to bring his luggage upstairs. The servant, uncertain, inquired, “Mrs. Douglas, where shall I place Mr. Douglas' bags?"

After a moment's hesitation, Alexis instructed, "The guest room will do."

The servant nodded respectfully and proceeded as told.

Alexis returned alone to the master bedroom. She perched silently on the sofa beside the window, the night's breeze wafting through the partially opened window.

A dim glow emanated from a decorative glazed maple leaf in the shadowed room.

Alexis picked it up.

With a quiet intensity, she examined the piece. It was meant to be a gift for Leonel, one she never had the chance to give. Memories flooded back of a night filled with rough passion, the pain it brought her, and the cold touch of the glazed maple leaf against her fingers. A tearful urge to throw the piece had crossed her mind once, but restraint held her back.

As tears gathered in Alexis' eyes, the door burst open. Leonel's abrupt entrance caught her off guard, and though she hastily set aside the glazed maple leaf, he had already illuminated the room before she could compose herself.

They exchanged a long, silent look under the newly lit light.

“What's going on?" Alexis asked, her voice a feathery tone masking her earlier emotion.

Leonel, having closed the door with a gentle click, faced her and asked, with a slow, deliberate cadence, "Was it you who instructed that my luggage be placed in the guest room?"

Alexis confirmed, her voice low, "We've decided to divorce. Sharing a room once more isn't right."

Leonel's gaze was unflinching.

A scornful laugh broke the silence. “Alexis, we are not yet parted. If I desire you tonight, would you turn me away?"

A sting of hurt pierced Alexis.