Her fingers hesitated, but then grasped his.

Stepping out, she nearly stumbled into him, but Leonel quickly steadied himself and instinctively wrapped his arms around her.

In that embrace, they felt each other's presence distinctly.

Ross muttered to himself, bewildered, "How could it be broken? It was just maintained two weeks ago."

Leonel glanced down at Alexis. "Let's go."

"Okay," Alexis agreed. The two walked side by side, Leonel's arm around her shoulder providing warmth on this winter night. It felt like a return to earlier days when he was the protective older brother.

Under the bright street lamps, their shadows stretched long on the snowy ground.

After a moment, Alexis looked up at him. "Does your leg hurt?"

Leonel shook his head. "No."

Though there was a slight pain, the serene night and quiet road, bathed in beauty, made him willing to endure it.

They approached the front gate.

The guard offered to send a car for them, but Leonel declined. They walked to the villa together, where the scent of cooking wafted through the air.

"It smells like Mom's special recipe, which I haven't had in years,"

Alexis remarked.

Leonel's smile was soft and welcoming.

As they entered the house, the family waiting inside greeted them with knowing smiles. The children were particularly delighted; Evelyn ran over, hugged Leonel's arm, and joyfully called him "Daddy."

Leonel affectionately patted her head.

Out of the corner of his eye, he spotted Olivia, who had also come over for the meal.

Remembering his recent dealings with Pryor Technology and the frequent interactions he had had with someone there, Leonel teased, “What? Not spending Christmas Eve with your boyfriend?"

Olivia looked up at Leonel.