Marcus glanced at Leonel and proposed, "Since dad is still asleep, how about a few rounds of chess with me?"

Leonel grinned, teasing, “Try not to shed tears if you lose."

Marcus snickered, retorting, "Do you think I'm still eight?"

The two men remained focused on their game of chess, with Edwin occasionally casting a glance in the direction of the bathroom.

Just then, Alexis came downstairs.

Cradling a recently awakened Cordelia, Alexis descended the stairs at a leisurely pace. Spotting Leonel in the distance, Cordelia reached out, calling, "Daddy."

Alexis had no choice but to bring the little girl to her father.

Due to Leonel's leg difficulties, he remained seated and reached out to take Cordelia. In that moment of contact, his hand inadvertently brushed against Alexis' chest.

Alexis and Leonel locked eyes, their eyes revealing a mix of complex emotions.

It was the first time they had experienced such close contact since Leonel announced he had a girlfriend. After a moment, Alexis regained composure and asked, "Why didn't you bring your girlfriend?"

Leonel inquired, “Would you prefer if I brought her along?"

Alexis remained silent.

She believed speaking too much would reveal her inability to move on, especially with so many people present.

Leonel chose not to push further. He suggested Edwin take his place while he attended to his little girl. Despite his attempts to maintain composure, his leg proved troublesome. He even found it challenging to stand, let alone carry Cordelia.

Alexis noticed something amiss. Taking Cordelia from him, she remarked casually, “Is your gout flaring up badly? You should really consider getting proper treatment. Enduring the pain isn't good for you."

Leonel's fingers tightened as he felt the warmth lingering in his hand.

He questioned, “Do you still care about me?"

Alexis was at a loss for words.

Staring at her face, Leonel asked, "How have you been lately? I heard you're going on a blind date. Have you found someone suitable?"

He had posed this question countless times. Suddenly, Alexis grasped the reality of their numerous breakups.