Cecilia's heart warmed at his words. Just as she was about to speak further, a distinct fragrance reached her senses, causing her to inquire, “Harold, why do I detect the scent of perfume on you?"

Harold's nerves were on edge, anxiety tingling through his veins.

In his mind, he pondered whether it was the fragrance of the female escort's perfume.

Attempting to ease the situation, he mustered a smile and said, “This morning, I had to visit the hospital to change the dressing. Perhaps it's the lingering scent of the nurse's perfume that you're sensing.”

Cecilia expressed her discontent, her dissatisfaction manifesting in fidgeting with her nails, as she grumbled, "That nurse must be exceptionally young and beautiful! You must have found great joy when she attended to your dressing."

A chuckle escaped Harold's lips, as he playfully pinched her cheek, teasingly asking, “Are you feeling a twinge of jealousy, my dear?"

Deeply enamored by Harold, Cecilia's suspicions were mere fleeting thoughts. He skillfully coaxed her and, in no time, a radiant smile adorned her face as she leaned affectionately against his shoulder.

Korbyn confidently placed his chess piece on the intricately carved chessboard, offering his opinion.

"As a young lady, it is best to maintain a certain level of reservation."

How could Korbyn fail to recognize his own daughter's nature?

Waylen had mentioned that Cecilia possessed a pure simplicity and would readily comply with Harold's wishes.

Yet, Korbyn believed it was advantageous for Cecilia to be with the astute Harold who would look out for her.

Harold effortlessly deceived Cecilia, his smile masking his true intentions.

Just then, Juliette approached with a warm smile and addressed the group, "Since Waylen is unable to join us at the moment, why don't we proceed with our meal? The servant has already laid out the dishes."

Cecilia seized Harold's hand, pulling him close as they walked arm in arm, an intimate gesture reflecting their connection.

Korbyn and Juliette exchanged knowing smiles, an unspoken understanding passing between them.

During the subsequent lunch, the atmosphere remained pleasant. Harold showcased his conversational prowess, endearing himself to Cecilia's parents.

After the meal, Cecilia led Harold to her private sanctuary on the second floor.

As the door closed behind them, she boldly initiated a passionate kiss, revealing her desire to share a deeper connection with him.

However, Harold's wound and his sexual encounter with the female escort earlier that morning meant that fatigue gripped him, leaving him devoid of the energy required for intimacy with Cecilia.

Moreover, his current state of mind did not lend itself to passionate endeavors, so he settled for a tender kiss instead.

In a voice tinged with huskiness, he expressed, "Give me a few more days, my love. Can you wait?"