Leonel responded indifferently, Youre thinking too much.
Before Anika could respond, a gentle voice interrupted. Dad! Anika and Leone! glanced over and noticed his son and daughter nearby.
Both kids were strikingly beautiful, inheriting their looks from their parents.
Evelyn was a stunning girl.
Leonel lifted her into his arms. She wrapped her arms around his neck and planted a kis on his cheek. Daniel, though younger, was more composed and adored his sister deeply, and so he didnt protest when his dad didnt pick him up as well.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtLeonel led them to the buffet area and handed Evelyn her favorite ice cream.
Seeing Leonels tender gaze, Anikas heart skipped a beat. She dreamed
of how joyful life would be married to such a man.
When Alexis entered, she caught Anika gazing affectionately at Leonel.
To add to the tension, Anika was wearing the same dress as Alexis.
Alexis grabbed a champagne glass. Noreen coughed and called out, Miss Cohen.
Anika turned and saw Alexis.
She feared Alexis would be shocked and upset upon seeing the dress and might even lose her temper But Alexis remained cool and even offered a smile, greeting, Hello, Miss Cohen.
Ms. Fowler, your kids are adorable, Anika quickly said.
I prefer Mrs. Douglas for now. Miss Cohen, perhaps you should call me that today, since | am still a married woman, after all, right? When you need legal counsel and come to my office someday, well go back to addressing me as Ms. Fowler then.
Anika had been in the television business for years and knew her way around. Deep down, she never had much respect for Alexis. Yet, she was caught off guard by how composed Alexis appeared.
Anika was about to say something when Leonel walked up, his arms wrapped around Alexis. He eyed the identical dresses the two women wore, visibly annoyed. Why are you dressed like my wife? he questioned.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmAlexis couldnt help but chuckle at the situation.
Ina rush, Anika apologized, Im so sorry, sir. It wasnt on purpose Ill go change right away. Her eyes brimmed with tears, and she looked visibly upset as she made her way to the lounge.
Suddenly, a shout broke the silence, and dark red wine stained her dress.
The waiter nearby was shocked. He was sure he had been careful.
Oh, Im terribly sorry, maam! he apologized immediately.
With tears welling up in her eyes, Anika responded gently, Its okay. Its not your fault She cast a meaningful glance at Alexis, hinting at something.
Noreen was seething with anger. She thought Anika was being two- faced!