Finally, she softly nudged him aside and hung her head low, saying, “Let's both take a moment to collect ourselves."

Mark watched her intently.

At that moment, he could only sense that she had matured, becoming a woman with independent thoughts while he was lost in a daze.

Yet he was uncertain if this was a positive development.

The next three days unfolded without incident.

Throughout this time, Mark continued to receive calls from Cathy, but he refrained from visiting Laura. He only occasionally conversed with

Laura over the phone, always speaking to her gently.

While Laura's father was Paul, she was undeniably Cathy's child.

Cecilia was disgusted.

On this particular day, Mark quit and delegated all his responsibilities. He decided to become just an ordinary man.

After handing off his duties, Mark lingered in his office.

He found it hard to say goodbye.

Peter decided to step down from his position alongside Mark. Having grown accustomed to working with Mark, he now aspired to embark on a fresh career.

Peter, who had the deepest understanding of Mark, spoke quietly.

“Given your abilities, you're bound to achieve success in the business world."

Mark pulled out a cigarette. He lit it, inhaled a few times in silence, then crushed it out.

"Let's move on."

They were ready to depart.

At this critical moment, Cathy arrived and surveyed Mark's office.

Unable to contain her astonishment, she questioned, "Mark, have you lost your mind? All your life's hard work is here. Your connections and your promising career! You should be willing to let go of all of it for the sake of a little girl!"