Alexi had overheard every word exchanged between the two women. He had lingered behind the crowd upon spotting Hera, seized by the desire to discern his place in her heart. A mixture of anticipation, excitement, and nervousness coursed through him as he awaited Hera's response. Despite knowing Hera harbored resentment toward him for what seemed like a betrayal, Alexi clung to the belief that he still held significance in her life. After all, they had spent three years together, and he had envisioned a future intertwined with hers. To him, their current predicament was merely a trial, a test designed to fortify their love and deepen their bond.