Alexis lay on her side, her gaze fixed on the crib where the baby slept soundly, perhaps sated from feeding. Deep down, she longed to be closer to the child, but she resisted displaying too much affection in Leonel's presence.

However, Leonel seemed to read her mind. He kissed the back of her neck and murmured softly, “Shall I bring the baby to you?"

She declined gently. "She's sleeping. Let's wait until she wakes."

Leonel did not press further.

Instead, he opened his arms, inviting Alexis to rest against hima rarity even during the peaks of their past passion. Alexis found his approach somewhat contrived.

At this age, still the sentimental type.

"What are you thinking? I'm here to keep you warm," Leonel coaxed, noticing her hesitation. He then drew her close with care, ensuring he was gentle. His chin rested on the top of her head as he reassured her in a deep, soothing voice, “You've just had our baby. I wouldn't think of anything else."

He was indeed warm.

Alexis allowed herself a moment of reassurance before she closed her eyes.

Initially tense, she gradually relaxed into the curve of his shoulder as fatigue set in.

Leonel watched her peaceful expression; it lacked the youthful glow of earlier years but was still undeniably beautiful. He couldn't resist tracing his fingers softly across her face.

Time passed quietly, and he leaned in, pressing his cheek to hers, a sensation of rediscovery washing over him. This moment, he knew, would imprint on his memory forever.

When Alexis awoke later that afternoon, the bed beside her was empty.

Sounds of laughter and conversation drifted up from downstairs, the children's voices mingling with Leonel's.

Alexis abruptly sat up, her gaze drawn to the window where the fading sunset marked the onset of night.

How long had she been asleep?

At that moment, the door creaked open and Leonel entered. Their eyes met, Alexis still groggy from her nap.

Leonel approached the crib to check on the baby.

“It's almost seven," he murmured. “You were still asleep, so I went to pick up Evelyn and Daniel myself."

Alexis merely nodded.