Seeing Leonel's swift diaper change, memories of Daniel's infancy flooded Alexis' mind. She recalled how Leonel had cared for Daniel in a similar manner.

Avoiding Leonel's gaze, Alexis refrained from allowing her mind to dwell on additional thoughts.

She made her way to the French window and drew back the curtains, revealing a view of a quaint maple forest outside. The autumn season had painted the maple trees in vibrant shades of red.

Alexis’ eyes flickered with intensity as she pressed her head against the window, her tone gentle as she spoke to Leonel. “Why must you be so obstinate, Leonel? Setting me free would benefit us both, and the children would grow up without the burden."

Meanwhile, on the other side, Leonel attended to Cordelia's diaper change.

Alexis' words halted Leonel's hands mid-task, prompting him to look up.

Outside, the red maple leaves blazed like flames.

Separated by the glass window, Alexis stood by it, her bare face reminiscent of her appearance in the past, catching Leonel's attention.

Leonel stared at her for a while.

As the baby in the crib began to cry again, indicating hunger, Leonel's thoughts ceased as he swiftly lifted the baby into his arms.

He leaned in close to Alexis and whispered, "She's probably hungry. You feed her first. I'll go downstairs to cook for you."

Despite the lingering estrangement between the former couple, the cries of the baby demanded their immediate attention. In that moment, they had to set aside their differences and prioritize the needs of their child.

Alexis made her way back to the sofa, taking a seat at a measured pace.

Leonel leaned forward and gently placed Cordelia into Alexis' waiting arms. He couldn't resist the urge to caress his daughter with his fingers. As the girl detected the scent of breast milk, she instinctively nuzzled against Alexis. Cordelia eventually found Alexis’ breast and attempted to nurse through the thin cloth. However, unable to access the milk, the baby grew frustrated and became red-faced with anxiety.

Leonel observed the scene with eager anticipation.

“Please, step out for a moment," Alexis requested softly.

He wished to stay, but fearing that his presence might cause discomfort, he simply nodded in agreement. As he turned away, Alexis began the process of undoing her clothes to nurse Cordelia. However, struggling to manage the buttons with only one hand, Alexis inadvertently caused the hungry baby to cry once more.

Leonel had already stepped out of the room, intending to close the door behind him.

However, he hesitated upon hearing the baby cry, turned back and stopped before Alexis. “Let me help you with that," he offered in a hoarse voice.

Initially inclined to refuse, Alexis faltered as Leonel reminded her in a low voice, “Alexis, we agreed to be a real couple."