Leonel, noticing her silence, offered a small smile. "I've already eaten."

The air between them felt awkward. Alexis brushed back her long brown hair and swung her legs off the bed. "I'll freshen up, then let's head down for dinner."

But Leonel interjected, "Stay here. It's raining, and the downstairs feels damp."

After a pause, Alexis agreed.

However, the baby's room wasn't ideal for long stays for the three of them. Eventually, Leonel had the servants move the crib into their main bedroom. After they left, Leonel scooped Alexis into his arms unexpectedly.

“What are you doing?" she protested, tugging at his shirt. “Put me down."

Leonel held her gaze.

Finally, he spoke. "After Daniel was born, I carried you everywhere, even to the bathroom. Years have passed, but you're still as light as a feather."

She frowned. "Put me down. It's not right for the kids to see us like this."

"Is it the kids you're worried about, or is it me?" he pressed, his grip firm.

She clenched his cuff link, her voice hesitant. "I'm not used to this anymore. Leonel, I know we have an agreement, but this is too fast."

They had been separated for nearly a year.

They were almost strangers now.

Still, Leonel didn't set her down. He carried her back to the main bedroom, pausing in the long hallway to press her gently against the warm, brick-red wall. Mindful of her dislike for the cold, his hand supported her back tenderly.

He lowered his head, his lips brushing the base of her ear.

"Do you remember your birthday two years ago? The one where you got drunk and we ended up doing it right here?" he whispered hoarsely.

"I still remember how that felt. Do you, Alexis?"

“I forgot."

Alexis responded quickly, her voice tinged with anxiety. She didn't want to remember; those memories were too shameful.

That night had been reckless.