There, Evelyn could play with the puppy on the Lawn.
The thought of such moments kept Leonel awake for several nights.
A week later, at Duefronâs international airport.
Alexis arrived on a regular flight, not a private one.
After disembarking, her daughter Evelyn, who was two and a half, whispered a request to visit the restroom.
So, Alexis accompanied her, waiting outside as Evelyn went in by herself.
At two and a half years old, Evelyn could manage the restroom by herself.
Alexis waited for her outside.
Soon enough, Evelyn emerged, having zipped up her pants.
The washbasin, however, was too high for her.
Alexis lifted her up, showing Evelyn how to wash her hands properly.
The little girl caught on quickly.
Alexis smiled warmly, gently ki*sing Evelyn.
âGood girl,â she praised.
Evelyn responded with a giggle.
As Alexis looked up, about to set Evelyn down, her gaze caught in the mirror.
Leonel was there.
He was in a formal suit, as if heâd come straight from work.
He appeared thinner than before.
But he still had that mature, charming air typical of a man in his prime.
His eyes met Alexisâ in the mirror.
Alexis didnât feign ignorance.
She offered a small smile.
âWhat a coincidence,â she remarked, and then quickly averted her gaze.
After a moment, Leonel spoke, his voice rough.
âItâs not a coincidence.
I came to pick you up.
â
His eyes then shifted to Evelyn.
The little girl looked back at him, her expression one of timid unfamiliarity.
Sensing her discomfort, Alexis wrapped an arm around her and suggested softly, âSay hello to Mr.
Douglas.
â
âMr.
Douglas,â Evelyn greeted him, her manners impeccable.
Leonelâs expression faltered.
Alexis was introducing him as Mr.
Douglas.