Turning to Alexis, he offered, “Take a break on the couch. I got this."

Alexis, keeping her distance, silently set the bowl of soup on the table.

Daniel, now resigned, leaned against Leonel, obediently slurping the soup.

With Daniel cradled in one arm, Leonel fed him tenderly.

Gazing at the child's face, memories flooded Leonel's mind. Those early days with Daniel, with a son and daughter, were the happiest of times.

Reminiscing, he choked up and tears brimmed in his eyes.

Meanwhile, Daniel eyed Leonel, dutifully having the soup. It really perked him up.

Waylen and Rena came back after the lunch and happened to see the scene.

Waylen couldn't resist teasing, "Quite the softie, huh?"

Leonel met their gaze, offering a nod.

Ready to rib Leonel again, Waylen got a discreet elbow nudge from Rena, reminding him the presence of Daniel. Reluctantly, he backed off. Turning to Alexis, he said, “Go grab a bite. We've got Daniel.”

Alexis nodded, giving Daniel's head a gentle pat.

“T'll be quick."

The hospital boasted a fancy dining room. Lunch arrived promptly for the Fowlers. Despite the setting, it was a hearty spread. Plus, with Alexis expecting, the chef made sure she had plenty of options.

As Alexis dug in, the butler detailed each dish, noticing her sparse appetite, ready to coax her into eating more...

Suddenly, Leonel's smooth, deep voice cut in, "Have some more. You're eating for two now.”

Alexis froze at the sound.

The butler, taken aback, still managed a polite greeting. "It is good to see you, Mr. Douglas."

Leonel settled across from Alexis, helping himself to the food and even sliding a bowl of soup her way.

The butler's expression twitched at the impromptu gesture.