Her assistant glanced over, seeing a resemblance unsaid, holding her tongue.

Exiting the room, Alexis froze.

Leonel was there, a presence unshaken from the night before, clutching a large bag that, in all likelihood, contained the 32 returned gifts.

In the quiet corridor, Alexis' voice was a murmur. "I don't want these."

Leonel's gaze lingered on her before shifting to the papers in the assistant's grip.

In a whisper, he inquired, “Is this visit for the prenatal checkup?"

A nod from Alexis was all the confirmation he needed. "May I see the ultrasound image?"

Her assistant's eyes sought direction. With a flicker of indifference, Alexis commanded, "Go ahead, show him." She then moved toward the elevator, her steps firm, leaving no room for doubt about her stance.

Leonel reached out, his touch a soft plea. "Alexis, we need to talk."

She glanced down at where his hand met hers.

After a hush, her voice rose, barely above a breath. "What more do you want, Leonel?" Her question hung in the air, a pause heavy with the weight of past and present.

“Leonel, after all that has transpired, reuniting would be folly. Our history is rich, not just with love, but with moments worth remembering. Yet, letting go is best for both of us.”

Leonel absorbed her words, a silence enveloping him.

Alexis withdrew her hand decisively and strode toward the elevator.

The assistant placed the ultrasound results into Leonel's hand before rushing after Alexis.

A shiver ran through Leonel's hand, his unease visible. He bowed his head to behold the ultrasound's colorful display. The contours of the baby's face hinted at innocence not yet touched by the world. She was indeed beautiful.

A buzz broke his focus—a message had arrived.

Alexis had sent a text, concise and profound. "Her name is Cordelia Fowler."

Leonel turned the name over in his mind, the weight of it draining the color from his cheeks.

Cordelia Fowler...