Mark took it upon himself to prepare a few dishes.

The night air was chilly, and Waylen stood alone in the courtyard, dialing Rena's number to let her know where he was.

Rena's gentle voice greeted him when she picked up.

“Dinner is ready, Will you be back for it

Waylen, undoing a button on his coat, whispered, "You and the kids should eat first. I'm away on business, and it might be difficult for me to make it back. If you have trouble sleeping, let Alexis sleep with you. She always likes to snuggle up to you the most."

Waylen claimed he was on a business trip, and Rena had no reason to doubt him, She simply wished him well and implored him to take care of himself,

When he listened to her soft-spoken words, Waylen's heart swelled with longing. He couldn't resist saying something cheesy.

“Rena, it's only been a day, but I already miss you."

“Me too." Waylen's heart did a little dance.

He was about to say more when Mark interrupted, “You're with her every day, and now you can't stand one day without her?’

Waylen hung up the phone, grinning. He joined Mark for a drink and some conversation.

As he removed his coat, revealing a black turtleneck, Waylen*s face flushed a faint red from the wine.

He looked incredibly handsome.

The wine had loosened Waylen's tongue, and he asked casually, “When do you plan to give Cecilia and Edwin a home

Mark held his glass, a bittersweet smile playing on his lips.

He felt guilty for repeatedly postponing his promise to Cecilia. Thankfully, danger no longer lurked nearby.

Perhaps due to women's innate reserve, Cecilia wasn't as forward as she used to be.

As for Mark, his busy schedule had always made him unable to address his personal matters.

“Maybe next year," Mark whispered, gazing into his glass. Waylen was delighted to hear Mark's resolute answer,

He poured a glass of wine for Mark.

The two of them continued to chat merrily.

Late into the night, Waylen found himself in Rena‘s room, Meanwhile, Mark ventured into Zoey's room. Zoey had been overcome with grief and barely ate, so Mark took it upon himself to whip up a simple noodle dish for her.