Leonel couldn't answer.

ALL he knew was he couldn't let Alexis go. If he did, she might never return.

Maybe she'd find someone else.

Then Leonel would just become an awkward memory she'd rather forget.

He didn't want that, so even if she despised him, he refused to let go.

When Alexis woke early the next morning, Leonel and Evelyn were gone from bed.

The morning light bathed Alexis who was feeling oddly serene.

Pushing aside the duvet, she padded barefoot on the soft carpet, opening the French window.

Out there, a familiar sight greeted her.

Outside the French window, there was lots of maple trees just Like the one she and Leonel had planted on her parents' yard when they were kids.

Leonel had planted them here.

She understood his intent. He wanted to stir her memories, soften her heart and win her back.

Closing her eyes, she pondered.

Footsteps approached. Leonel entered, hesitating to embrace her from behind, mindful of her feelings. "Get ready; we'll have breakfast. Then we'll take Evelyn for her hearing test."

Before she could refuse, he added, “Evelyn's eagerly waiting downstairs. You love her most, don't disappoint her. She needs some stability."

Looking at him, Alexis spat, "You make me sick, Leonel."

He only smiled faintly. He knew.

Alexis composed herself, eyeing the maple forest. Then she asked him, “What's your game?"

Leonel failed to hold back the urge to touch her.

He wrapped his arms around her, lips grazing her neck. "Don't you remember what I said? That I want a baby with you?" he whispered.