But Evelyn longed for Calvinâs presence.
Upon Alexisâ return, Evelyn could now request outings to visit Calvin.
Evelyn, being a straightforward child, harbored no ulterior motives in her words.
Retrieving the suitcase, Leonel overheard the conversation but remained silent.
Tenderly, he reassured Evelyn, âCalvin is presently away from Duefron, but youâll have the chance to see him upon his return.
â
A tinge of disappointment shadowed Evelynâs expression.
Unable to resist, Alexis glanced up at Leonel.
Despite his unchanging expression while lying, he efficiently handled the suitcase with one hand, cradling Evelyn in the other as they ascended the stairs.
Alexis remained momentarily stunned before exiting the car.
The early spring evening air carried a subtle chill.
Dim lighting filled the porch as a servant greeted Alexis and inquired, âMrs.
Douglas, shall we proceed with dinner?â
Despite her weariness, Alexis, mindful that both Leonel and Evelyn had yet to dine, instructed, âGo ahead; serve the food.
â
The servant promptly arranged the table.
Ascending to the second floor for a wardrobe change, Alexis encountered Evelyn descending the stairs.
Acting swiftly, the servant attended to Evelyn, urging, âMrs.
Douglas, please proceed with your tasks.
â
Alexis nodded affirmatively, pushing open the master bedroom door.
Spotting her suitcase in the parlor, Alexis observed Leonel indulging in a smoke on the sofa.
Closing the door behind her, Alexis inquired, âWhy smoke indoors?â
âNot a fan?â
He remained seated, gazing at her, before extinguishing the cigarette.
Carrying her suitcase to the cloakroom, Alexis efficiently unpacked and switched into comfortable lounge attire.
The door creaked open, revealing Leonel.
Gazing at her quietly, he inquired, âAre you planning to visit Calvin?â
Alexis glanced at the clothes she held from where she had shed them.
After a moment, she questioned, âAre you seeking the truth or a fabrication?â
In a husky tone, Leonel asserted, âThe truth.
â
Facing him, Alexis hesitated before speaking.
âCalvin doesnât have much time left.
He doesnât have any family around, and even if there were, theyâre only interested in his millions.
Leonel⦠I wonât justify the difference between Calvin and Serenity, but I want you to know I didnât wrong you during our time together.
â