".... Lealled you 'Uncle Mark" Tears welled up in Cecilia's eyes.

Mark nodded. Then he gently held the back of her head and pressed his lips against hers...

She was a little resistant, but then he whispered, "Be a good girl for me.”

Cecilia stopped fighting and let him do what he wanted with her. ©

Mark was an adept kisser, skillful in the art of tender embraces as he held Cecilia close, allowing her to melt into his comforting presence.

Though Cecilia had experienced past relationships, the allure of the moment with Mark was simply irresistible.

As he released her from their embrace, her legs turned to jelly, and she would have stumbled if not for his steady support. She clung to his shoulder, momentarily uncertain of her next move.

In a surprising twist, she had just shared a kiss with Rena’s uncle, leaving her mind buzzing with conflicting emotions.

There were instances where the ambient sounds seemed to mimic the rhythm of their intimacy, in sync with Mark's heartbeat.

Mark's thoughts cleared up slightly, unsure of how to proceed in this situation with Cecilia.

In this secluded setting, Cecilia couldn't help but feel nervous, her shyness palpable as they shared their intimate moments.

She possessed beauty that captivated Mark but he realized she might not fit into his world seamlessly.

Tenderly, Mark gently touched her head and said softly, "Cecilia, I've mentioned before that I'm too old for a young girl like you. To me, even socializing serves a purpose — | can't simply relax."

Suddenly, his voice turned hoarse as he uttered, "Don't have feelings for me.”

Despite the moment's warmth, Mark's words came across as a rejection, causing unintentional pain.

Refusing to lose face, Cecilia fought back tears and feigned strength, retorting, "I don't have feelings for you."

In truth, she just tried to tell herself that the kiss meant little to her.

Mark, though relieved, felt a twinge of disappointment but he quickly masked it with his experienced demeanor.

After saying farewell to his classmates, Mark's decision to leave surprised Charlie, who questioned, "Are you leaving already? We're waiting for you to draw a card. The game is set.”

Politely but firmly, Mark declined the invitation and departed with Cecilia.

As they sat together in the car, both were troubled and a heavy silence hung between them.

Finally, Mark lit a cigarette, seeking some solace for his troubled state of mind.