He'd always understood he couldn't hold onto Alexis indefinitely.

But...

Leonel forced a bitter smile, stepping back slightly. He brushed her cheek gently, surprised when she didn't pull away. It might have been the most tender moment they'd shared in a year.

His voice caught in his throat as he spoke. “If I can hold onto you for even just one more day, Alexis, I'll do it... Maybe I've grown accustomed to your presence. I can't imagine a life without you. Maybe your life would be better, freer, if you hadn't taken me in in the first place. But, Alexis, you did. And no matter what... I can't bear to let you go now!"

After saying that, Leonel's eyes shimmered briefly.