The young man, previously engrossed with the camera, glanced over and offered a shy smile.
He somehow bore a resemblance to Calvin.
Both Alexis and Leonel were taken aback.
After a pause, Leonel turned and asked quietly, âDo you still think of Calvin?â
Alexis didnât hesitate.
With a gentle smile, she replied, âSometimes.
He was with me for years, and his passing was so sudden.
I visited the cemetery recently; his gravestone was neatly trimmed, surrounded by his favorite flowers.
Leonel, have you been there?â
Leonel didnât deny it.
Holding the cigarette between his slender fingers, he took a slow drag and smiled.
âI had some free time, so I visited his grave.
Thought some flowers would be nice.
â
Alexis remained silent.
They stood together in the falling snow, feeling a quiet calm within them.
Eventually, Leonel gestured towards the distance and asked, âYou havenât told me yet.
Is he your new boyfriend? If he is, you should bring him home.
Your parents are concerned about your relationship.
â
Alexis looked down and scuffed a dried blade of grass with her black high-heeled boot.
After a moment, she looked up and asked, âWhat about you? Have you found someone suitable?â
Leonel met her gaze silently, not noticing his cigarette had burned down to the filter until the heat touched his fingertips.
He flicked it away with a faint smile and replied, âNo.
â
He squinted, looking towards the young man again.
Clearing his throat, he inquired, âHe seems handsome.
What about his education and family background? How serious are you two?â
He posed several questions.
Alexis didnât respond to any; she simply smiled, her eyes warm.
Leonel felt a twinge of jealousy but maintained a generous facade.
âItâs Christmas Eve.
Why not invite him over for dinner? Mom and Dad have everything prepared and are waiting for us.
â
Alexis said slowly, âI donât think thatâs a good idea.
The kids arenât ready yet.
â
Leonelâs expression darkened.
After a pause, he opened the back door of the car and asked, âSo, are you spending Christmas Eve with your boyfriend, or are you coming home with me?â
Alexis gestured toward the young man, indicating she was going to call him later, and then climbed into the car.
Leonel followed her inside.
As they settled in, the window closed.
Leonel couldnât resist one last glance outside; he caught the young manâs disappointed gaze.
Leonel feigned nonchalance, though a hint of displeasure colored his tone.
âIsnât he a bit young for you? He looks like heâs still in his late 20s.
â