Ignoring his reaction, Alexis took a sip from the thermos, her actions fluid and unconcerned. Leonel's eyes lingered on her lips, and he wondered if she realized she was overstepping boundaries.

Weren't they practically family now?

He told himself not to overthink it. Perhaps he was reading too much into her actions, and she hadn't intended any seduction.

Lost in thought, he suddenly realized he was holding the thermos.

Leaning back in the leather seat, her head propped on her hand, Alexis smiled. “It's good for you. Daniel mentioned you've been making progress lately. I noticed you're walking much better. With the cold weather, does your leg still bother you?"

Leonel instinctively reached for his left leg.

After a long silence, Leonel spoke in a low voice, "It's much better. It doesn't hurt as much anymore, but it still looks terrible."

Alexis watched him intently.

Just as he thought she would remain silent, she murmured, "Those who truly love you won't be scared away by some scars."

Leonel trembled slightly.

He turned to speak to her, but she had already straightened up and was typing a message.

The profile picture of the person she was messaging appeared to be of a young man.

A twinge of jealousy surged through Leonel.

Their conversation stalled as the black limousine glided along the city streets. After a while, Alexis noticed the driver had slowed down and seemed to take a scenic detour along the river.

She found it tedious.

Tapping on the partition, she said, "If you keep taking detours, we won't be eating until midnight."

The driver was Ross, a long-time employee of the Fowler family who had watched both Leonel and Alexis grow up. Caught in the act, Ross grinned and said, "It's Christmas Eve, and the snow looks beautiful. You're both single. Why not just enjoy the holiday vibe together? I promise, no gossip; no one will know."

Both Alexis and Leonel were dumbfounded. No words escaped their lips.

Finally, Leonel instructed, “Let's just go home. Everyone is waiting for us for dinner."

Ross continued, half-joking, "Ah, you young people should enjoy some private life. You know each other well, so it's convenient and safe. There's a five-star hotel up ahead-great food and comfortable beds."