Moved by Rena's piano performance, even his eyes blazed with passion.

If only he had handled Elvira differently back then, Rena might not have suffered regrets and lost the opportunity to fulfill her dreams. Perhaps by now, she could have become a renowned pianist on the world stage.

But “if only" held no place in reality. ALL he desired now was to ensure her safe return. After Rena's final note resonated, she slowly lowered her hands, her heart heavy with emotion.

Unbelievable, the sensation was hauntingly familiar, tugging at her heartstrings.

In that moment, Waylen moved behind her, his warm palms gently settling on her slender shoulders, drawing her close.

His extreme tenderness was enough to disarm anyone.

Rena was taken aback, a swirl of emotions coursing through her. Days prior, Harold's memory had been a constant presence, even affecting her appetite. Yet now, her heart seemed firmly ensnared by the man beside her.

Obeying the pull, Rena's resistance dissolved as Waylen lowered his head, his Lips brushing against her ear as he whispered, “I've missed you so much. Did you know?"

Rena‘s body tensed, a sensation entirely new to her.

She had never been this close to a man before.

Her voice trembled as she responded, I didn't know."

Waylen said nothing further. He pressed his face into her cascading brown hair, embracing the softness. It had been too long since he held her like this.

Beside them, Cecilia observed with a mixture of amusement and incredulity.

What were they doing?

Why had he suddenly embraced Rena Like that?

Cecilia quietly slipped into the kitchen, her thoughts centered on finding something to eat. As she rummaged around, her eyes fell upon a brand new air fryer. Muttering to herself, she asked, “Why did my brother buy this?"

With an eager anticipation, she awaited the moment when they would be finished.

Under the soft embrace of twilight's embrace, the last golden rays of sunset kissed the world beyond the French window.

The scene was nothing short of enchanting.

Yet, Rena remained enveloped in Waylen's arms.

Inexperienced and uncertain, she finally gathered her courage and said, “Mr. Fowler, please release me.”

Waylen's hold on her waist tightened, his boldness unyielding.