That night, as she gazed at the maple trees beyond the French window, she couldn't shake the feeling that both she and Leonel were stuck, unable to move on.

Could two broken souls heal each other by sticking together?

Cordelia was switched to formula that night. Sensing the change she threw tantrums.

She even peed a bit and cried loudly on purpose. Leonel had to check on her every hour.

By 3 a.m., he'd already risen four times.

In the dimness, Cordelia kicked up a fuss once more. Alexis stirred to tend to her but her hand was held back. Leonel rose quietly, murmuring, “Stay put. I'll handle this.”

Leonel pacified Cordelia and fixed her a bottle of formula. This time, she might settle down. Clutching the bottle, she savored the milk.

He gently squeezed her chubby cheeks.

Back in bed, exhaustion washed over him. Aware that Alexis was still awake, he turned to her.

Slipping his hand under the covers, he gently asked, “Are your breasts bothering you?"

"A bit."

Being a mom before, Alexis knew the drill. She also sensed he was trying to break the silence and connect with her.

True to form, Leonel guided her hand to his body.

His voice rough, he muttered, “I'm uneasy. Alexis, let's give it a shot, yeah?"

Her body tensed slightly.

Interlacing their fingers, he didn't rush, pulling her close and kissing her tenderly first. He aimed to show her love, make her comfortable, and revel in the moment.

Their fingers intertwined.

Romance lingered in the air.

Leonel felt the spark. Gazing into her flushed eyes, he whispered, asking if she was up for it.

With no protest, he assumed she was into it too. He leaned in close, but paused the next second. “Alexis, you're lying to me."