Alexis buried her face in the pillow, feeling exhausted.
After a bit, she murmured, âDad, I need a breather.
Tell him he can come back in a few days.
â
Waylen stayed quiet, swiftly settling baby Cordelia in her stroller.
The little one blinked, still getting used to the world just inches away.
Her eyes wide open, she gave a tiny shake of her head.
Unable to resist, Waylen planted a ki*s on Cordeliaâs soft locks.
Cordelia sported only a bit of hair, unlike most babies.
Hers was a tangle of dark brown curls.
She probably got that from Rena.
Even though Leonel had pushed for this baby, Waylen couldnât help but still adore her.
Waylen lingered, watching the baby before heading out.
Leaning against the door, Leonel waited.
Spotting Waylen, he approached but the word âdadâ never left his lips.
He inquired, âHowâs Alexis? Will she see me?â
Waylen wasnât big on chatting with Leonel.
After a pause, Waylen met Leonelâs gaze, saying, âAlexis mentioned sheâs tired and you should come back later.
â
Leonel seemed a tad let down but quickly suggested, âHey, you and mom have your hands full with Alexis and the baby.
Evelyn and Daniel can stay with me for a bit.
Iâve got time this month.
â
Waylen agreed but added, âDonât go throwing that title around.
â
Leonel fell silent.
Waylen felt a mix of emotions.
They used to be like father and son, but lately, things were strained.
Yet, despite everything, Waylen couldnât avoid Leonel forever.
Mid-chat, Marcus and Melissa showed up.
They had brought over some remedies for Alexis.
Melissa stepped in first, with Marcus trailing behind, shooting daggers at Leonel.
Now that Leonel had no stake in the Fowler family, he couldnât linger.
Plus, Evelyn and Daniel had already jetted back to the villa.
Leonel lingered at the door for a moment before departing.
A week later, just before Alexis was discharged, she crossed paths with Leonel.
Initially, Rena had been tending to Alexis, but as soon as she spotted Leonel, she made herself scarce.