A doll he sweated to procure, or a fondness for her that he couldn't bring himself to express?

It seemed utterly absurd.

Mark had never felt such disdain for himself before.

As Cecilia glanced upward, her eyes fell upon Mark, elegantly clad in a light-colored wool suit. His presence was striking, exuding nobility and charm.

In that moment, he seemed more radiant than the entire night sky.

Before her was a man who had declared his love for her...

Unknowingly, Cecilia whispered, "Uncle Mark."

Mark gazed at her in quiet contemplation.

After some time, a faint ache tinged his eyes. He mustered a feeble smile and nodded in her direction before stepping into the waiting black vehicle.

Four sleek black Audi cars slowly departed from the scene.

Seated in the car, Mark found himself accompanied by the two adorable rabbit dolls.

Leaning back against the plush seat, he softly spoke to Peter, "Arrange the plane for tomorrow morning.”

Peter hesitated to respond initially but then gathered his courage and said, "You put in so much effort to line up and buy those dolls. You should at least personally give them to her.”

Mark covered his eyes with his arm and replied, “Have the dolls delivered to Rena. Tell her they're for her and Cecilia. Don't mention that | purchased them.”

‘Somewhat prideful and desiring to keep his affection for a little girl a secret, Mark chose to step back discreetly.

Silent resignation settled upon Mark in the car. He had never experienced feelings of inferiority since childhood, but witnessing Cecilia being confessed had stirred such emotions within him.

Compared to that ardent young man, Mark believed what he could offer was exceedingly insignificant...

He didn't believe he was good enough for Cecilia.

As the sky continued to dazzle with fireworks, the vibrant crowd around him unaware, little did he know that the girl he held dear was standing alone behind him...

Cecilia's eyes were moist, and as the bell chimed announcing the coming new year, she silently called out his name.

"Uncle Mark...”

On New Year's Day, Cecilia received a charming rabbit doll.