Cecilia kept quiet.

Upon exiting the bathroom, Mark noticed Cecilia lost in thought.

He settled across from her, inquiring, "What's on your mind? Did I upset you?"

Observing his presence, Cecilia stared at him. She wanted to keep Zoey company.

Mark stroked her hair tenderly and whispered, "What's going through your head? How could I leave her alone? She'll stay there alone for now. We will take Edwin back to Czanch in a few years. By that time, you're not allowed to get teary with homesickness."

He spoke with a soft and caring tone.

Cecilia appreciated the way Mark comforted her.

She murmured, “I won't if you treat me well."

Mark drew her close.

Tonight, he was overflowing with passion. Despite knowing he might not last, he couldn't hold back his desire, kissing her until her body nearly melted from his affection.

This intense lovemaking swept them off their feet.

It wasn't until midnight that Mark stirred from his slumber.

His phone buzzed, and it was a call from Laura.

In the darkness, he gazed at the screen quietly for a few seconds before finally hitting the mute button.

The light flickered on and off.

Sleep eluded him, so he tenderly embraced Cecilia, nuzzling his face against her graceful neck.

Cecilia's eyes fluttered open.

She sensed Mark's melancholy.

She knew he liked Laura dearly. She mused that if Laura hadn't been

Cathy's daughter, they might have welcomed Laura with open arms, raising her up as Rena did with Leonel.