Noticing their tears, he chose not to interrupt, instead stepping outside to smoke.

When Laura emerged from the room, he wrapped an arm around her in a comforting gesture, whispering softly, "Wait for me in the car."

With a nod, Laura leaned into his embrace for a moment.

Edwin patted her back reassuringly, watching her descend the stairs before he entered his parents' room. Cecilia, hiding her emotions, dismissed him briskly.

"Go on, Edwin. Today we remember Zoey, not me."