In a hushed tone, Alexis admitted, âI havenât had a chance to change.
â
Without facing her, Leonel grinned.
âGet changed then, and Iâll be waiting in the car.
â
Alexis remained silent.
Upstairs, she donned a simple but elegant black dress, fitting for the upcoming office party.
Typically, she refrained from adorning herself with jewelry.
The only item she kept with her was the ring nestled between her fingers.
From the jewelry box, she selected a blue diamond necklace and adorned herself with it.
The piece was beautiful yet subtly elegant, devoid of extravagance.
Heading downstairs, Alexis entered the car.
Engaged in conversation with Evelyn, Leonel shifted his attention upon hearing Alexisâ approach.
âSomething on your mind?â Alexis inquired while securing her seat belt.
In a low, raspy tone, Leonel complimented, âYou really shine in that dress.
â
The knee-length dress showcased her long, slender legs, vividly reminding him of the previous nightâs intense moments.
A flush crept up on Alexisâ cheeks.
The journey to the restaurant lasted around half an hour.
It marked Evelynâs first outing with her parents, and her excitement was palpable.
Evelynâs chatter filled the car, met with patient and gentle responses from Leonel.
Resting against the back of the seat, Alexis remained silent, absorbing the conversation happening around her.
She sensed Evelynâs joy, distinct from the period when the little girl lived with her and Calvin.
It underscored that no one could replace Leonel as a father.
âWhatâs on your mind?â
Suddenly, Leonel took hold of Alexisâ hand.
Alexis, feeling a bit uneasy, hesitated for a moment.
âFocus on the road, youâre driving.
â
Leonel released her hand with a smile.
Upon reaching the restaurant, Leonel halted the car and courteously opened the door for Alexis.
âIâll head in on my own,â Alexis declared.
Surveying the restaurant, Leonel teased, âScared your colleagues will spot me? Am I that disgraceful?â
âEveryone knows you,â Alexis responded, her gaze dropping.