Meanwhile, Alexis glanced at her phone in silence. Eventually, she began to change and instructed the servant, "I'll be out for a bit. Look after the baby, please."

The servant, aware of Waylen's accident, fretted over his condition and blamed Leonel for his apparent indifference.

After all, Waylen had saved Leonel's life with his blood.

How could Leonel turn his back on him? They used to be like father and son.

As Alexis headed out, Marcus rang her up, curious about her plans.

"I'm going to plead with Leonel," she confessed, eyes downcast.

Alexis slammed the phone down.

The driver knew it was serious, so he focused on speeding through the crowded street in the black limo.

Alexis sat silently.

She had just had a baby a few days ago and was still wrapped up like it was winter despite it being only early September.

She was wearing no makeup today and did not look as dazzling as usual.

She peeked out the window. The scenery whizzed by. Then a red cloud came into her view-a maple tree.

Alexis lifted her delicate fingers.

So the maple tree was red again.

Each year, the tree got redder, and she and Leonel drifted further apart.

Alexis pulled up at Leonel's office.

Noreen trotted downstairs to greet her. Tension buzzed in the lobby and rumors swirled about Leonel's failing marriage and another child.

Noreen tried to chat but Alexis kept quiet.

In a hush, she said, “I need to see Leonel, now.”

Noreen rushed to say, "Mr. Douglas is waiting. Please, come this way, Miss Fowler."