Alexis listened intently to the song, her beauty accentuated by the crystal lamp, her long curls catching the light.

Her gaze lingered on the young bartender.

From afar, Leonel observed quietly. Rumor had it Alexis frequented this spot lately...

Was she sweet on the young lad?

Was this guy going to take his place?

Alexis skipped the cocktail.

Timmy Hawks, a family friend's kid and a psych whiz recently back from overseas, ran this joint. He'd been doing shrink duty at a local hospital during daytime. Running this place, Timmy had invited Alexis to chill but banned booze.

He had warned her, “No stimulants, or you'll be counting sheep all night."

Timmy had a few sessions with Alexis a while back.

Lately, she'd pop in here to unwind.

Timmy said she'd bounced back.

Alexis eyed the man strumming the guitar. Timmy rocked a white shirt and black slacks. He was still young at heart in his early thirties.

After a couple of tunes, Alexis depart.

On the bar counter, that blush cocktail sat, untouched.

A slim figure loitered at the entrance.

Clad in white shirt, black pants, and a navy coat, handsome but with gloomy eyes-it was Leonel.

Alexis froze.

But Leonel snagged her wrist, teeth clenched. “Who's this guy? Is he your new boyfriend? Mrs. Douglas, remember we're not divorced yet. Are you here every day scouting for a new man?"

Alexis felt the urge to yank away. “What's your deal? He's..."

Leonel cut her off.