The wait seemed interminable.

Rena endured a grueling 16-hour labor and it wasn't until midnight that she finally gave birth.

Alexis Fowler.

Alexis arrived prematurely, her condition critical, prompting nurses to rush her to the ICU.

Alexis’ family hadn't even had the chance to catch a glimpse of her...

The doctor emerged, advising them to prepare themselves mentally and also be mindful of Rena's emotions.

Tears finally escaped Mark's eyes.

It was the first time Cecilia witnessed Mark shedding tears. In her memory, he was always resolute, unfazed by anything.

Past midnight, he couldn't sleep but found solace in smoking outdoors.

Morning came.

Mark entered the ward, while Juliette went to the reception desk. Inside, Cecilia perched by Rena's bedside, seemingly dozing off.

Gently, Mark patted Cecilia's shoulder.

Instantly, Cecilia stirred awake. Her reddened eyes met his, and she called out to him in a daze, "Uncle Mark."

"Do you still remember that I'm your Uncle Mark?"

His voice sounded hoarse, his words laden with ambiguity.

However, Cecilia had little room to dwell on the matter. In this tense situation, her fleeting emotions paled in comparison. All she wished for was Rena and Alexis to be safe.

Cecilia stepped out of the ward, allowing Mark to have a private conversation with Rena.

Heading to the ICU's entrance, Cecilia peered through the glass door but the view inside remained obscured.

She leaned against the door, shedding silent tears.

Her heart pleaded for her little niece's well-being...

She didn't know if her brother and sister-in-law would reunite as before, but she wanted Alexis to thrive. The little one was so young and adorable.

Not far away, Mark stood in silent contemplation.