I apologize.
â
Cecilia, not easily placated, retorted, âEven with a natural birth, Laura should rest for at least a year before they even consider a second child.
And itâs a decision for her and Edwin, not you.
How did it become your concern as a father-in-law? You should be ashamed for meddling.
â
Mark apologized once more.
The scene was a mix of submission and triumph; one lowered his stance as the other stood proud.
Alexis watched the interaction with a hint of envy.
As they headed back to the car, she remarked, âMark and Cecilia are really close.
â
After speaking, she covered her mouth, her face turning pale.
Leonel, concerned, asked urgently, âAre you sure itâs just from the run? Should we go to the hospital?â
Resting against the back of her seat, Alexis felt some discomfort.
âI might have overeaten.
We donât need the hospital,â she said weakly.
After a momentâs thought, she added softly, âI canât be pregnant anyway.
â
Concerned by her condition, Leonel reached out, touching her face.
âYour face feels cold.
We should visit the hospital.
â
Alexisâ protests were to no avail.
Leonel insisted on taking her to the hospital.
At the gastroenterology department, the doctor inquired about her symptoms, and then glanced at them, asking casually, âYou two are a couple, right?â
With a slight pursing of her lips, Alexis confirmed, âYes.
â
The doctor then said, âHead to the gynecology department for a check-up.
â
Bewildered, Alexis protested, âBut thatâs not possible.
â
The doctor, with a knowing look, advised, âIâm the doctor here.
And I know what Iâm doing.
â
Alexis had more to say, but, Leonel, sensing her hesitation, guided her out.
He masked his concern with a forced ease.
Outside, Alexis murmured, âI canât be pregnant, not since you-â
Leonel reassured her with a gentle pat.
âJust wait here.
Iâll find you a doctor.
â
As he turned to leave, Alexis clutched at his clothes, her voice barely above a whisper.
âLeonel⦠if⦠if I am really pregnant, would you want the baby?â
Returning, Leonel wordlessly embraced her.