In the late hours, a sleek Land Rover pulled into an upscale neighborhood.

Anika greeted Leonel at the door, throwing herself into his arms with joy.

Though they still didn't get intimate that night, Anika knew a man's heart softened with a woman's affection. She aimed to provide the warmth he lacked at home.

Come morning, in a finely furnished apartment, Leonel dozed on the sofa.

His phone buzzed with a call from Alexis.

But Leonel remained in dreamland.

Anika emerged from the kitchen, spotting the caller ID. She nibbled her lip, grabbed the phone, and slipped into the bedroom to pick up.

“Hey there, Mr. Douglas’ line. Drop a message, please.”

Alexis dialed early, needing to discuss an Exceed Group project with Leonel. She didn't expect Anika to pick up.

Though, it wasn't a total shocker.

“I'll buzz him later," Alexis replied calmly before hanging up.

While Anika mulled over what to relay to Leonel, she spotted him looming in the bedroom doorway, his face a storm. “Who gave you the green light to answer for me?"

Anika hadn't had time to clear the call log.

Her face drained of color. She handed the phone back, explaining, "You were out cold, so I thought I'd cover. I didn't catch who it was before I picked up."

Leonel scrolled through, noting the call lasted a mere ten seconds.

He eased up a tad and asked casually, "What did she say?"

“Mrs. Douglas said she would hit you up later."

Leonel pocketed his phone and spun around, about to leave. Anika trailed after him, fretting. Spotting him slip into different shoes, she grew uneasy, wrapping her arms around him from behind. "Skipping breakfast? Where are you off to?"

Leonel shrugged her off. “Grabbing a bite at the office."

His vibe was icy, leaving Anika treading lightly. She straightened his attire, tagging along downstairs.