Hearing his words, Alexis managed a faint smile but remained silent.

After a moment, Leonel met her gaze with a determined look and offered. "If you need it, I can go with you to your prenatal checkups."

But Alexis remained silent, prompting him to turn to Noreen. "Let's head back to the office!"

Leonel left first, with Noreen following closely behind.

Sitting in the hotel lobby, Alexis gently placed her hand on her abdomen.

She was carrying Leonel's child.

Thanks to this baby, she found her freedom. But it also marked the end of her relationship with Leonel.

In no time, New Year's Eve was around the corner, and the Fowler residence buzzed with holiday preparations.

The entire family gathered together to celebrate.

It wasn't clear why there was an extra set of tableware laid out, but Waylen noticed it first and asked the servant to remove it. To his surprise, the servant responded, "But these are for Mr. Douglas!"

The mention of Leonel cast a strange mood over the room.

The other members of the Fowler family worried Alexis might take offense. However, before they could say anything, Alexis spoke up calmly. "He won't be joining us for dinner this year. Please, remove the extra tableware! Although, when the baby arrives, we may need to set up an extra place."

Waylen felt a sense of relief upon hearing Alexis's words.

Someone changed the topic, and the room regained its liveliness.

After the family dinner, Alexis exchanged a few words with Melissa and the others before retiring upstairs.

Evelyn, eager and curious, snagged two apples from the table and stealthily ascended the stairs. She quietly pushed open the door to find Alexis reclining on a deck chair, gently caressing her belly.

The little girl approached, setting the apples down before leaning in to press her head against her mother's belly and listen intently.

Alexis said nothing but ran her fingers through Evelyn's hair with affection.

In a soft voice, Evelyn asked, "Mommy, is it going to be a boy or a girl? Which would you prefer?"

Alexis understood Evelyn's concerns. At her age, the little girl was sensitive to such matters. So, Alexis took Evelyn's hand and placed it on her abdomen, offering a reassuring smile. "I'll love them no matter what, whether it's a boy or a girl."