Leonel stood beside it, thankfully not smoking.

After observing Leonel for a moment, Waylen silently turned and made his way back to the villa. Although Leonel caught a glimpse of him, his lips barely moved in greeting before Waylen disappeared inside.

That night, Leonel remained outside the villa for a long time.

As seasons changed from summer to fall, Leonel frequently prepared different snacks, which Evelyn and Daniel would take home. Alexis usually accepted the food, likely for the sake of her unborn child.

Seeing her willingness to eat, Leonel devoted himself to perfecting his culinary skills.

Despite everything, Alexis had not forgiven him. She refused to let him accompany her to prenatal appointments or be present at the birth.

"Dad, does it hurt to have a baby?" Evelyn asked.

Leonel was momentarily lost in thought, recalling when Alexis had given birth to Daniel. He had been by her side in the delivery room, watching as pain etched itself across Alexis' pale face, her hand gripping his tightly.

Yet, when the baby arrived, her expression softened into a gentle smile.

“He looks very cute," Alexis had whispered softly to Leonel.

Pulled from his reverie by Evelyn's voice, Leonel was about to respond when his phone interrupted. It was a call from Jack. "Mr. Douglas, Miss Fowler might be in labor early."

Leonel's grip on the phone faltered.

He ended the call and turned to Evelyn, “Mommy is going to have the baby. Let's go."

Evelyn's anxiety was palpable.

As they prepared to leave, Evelyn clutched Leonel's Little finger. It had been a long time since she had sought such comfort from him, especially after the incident in Merblune.

Upon sensing her fear, Leonel's eyes welled up.

He embraced her gently and reassured, "Daddy is here.”

She continued to hold onto his finger tightly.

Knowing time was of the essence, Leonel lifted Evelyn-even though she was a teenager—into the car. He drove swiftly yet carefully, mindful of his daughter's presence.

At Pinnacle Hospital of Duefron, Alexis’ labor progressed more smoothly than expected.