Waylen offered no clarification.

He was a man, and Rena found the workings of the male heart and mind a mystery.

Meanwhile, Mark made his way upstairs.

He didn't barge into Cecilia's bedroom. Instead, he knocked softly.

Cecilia was afraid of making any noise, so she went to answer the door.

Exhaustion was evident on Mark as he stood there.

He hadn't changed from the day's attire, his blue shirt and pants layered under a black coat.

He didn't walk in immediately. He positioned himself at the door, gazing quietly at Cecilia.

Cecilia turned to him and said, "Please come in."

Nonetheless, he extended his hand and delicately brushed her cheek.

He softly remarked, “You've lost quite a bit of weight in days."

She moved to the side.

Mark entered and glanced around.

"Where's Edwin?"

“My brother took him away." Cecilia assumed Mark hadn't had a chance to eat or freshen up. She fetched him slippers, then went downstairs to whip up a pack of instant noodles, adding two slices of ham.

“Just make do with it. My brother is probably mad at you. He's not going to feed you."

Her voice was a soft murmur in the night.

Mark removed his trench coat and settled in front of the tea table, taking a seat.

He hardly ever indulged in instant noodles, but Cecilia would have them from time to time.

She lacked cooking skills, so she Likely consumed quite a bit when she was away from home in the past few years.