Even though he was enduring excruciating pain, Mark tenderly stroked Edwin's head.

Subsequently, he directed his gaze towards Cecilia, and the two exchanged meaningful looks.

Their separation didn't diminish the strong connection between them, confirming Korbyn's words that they were indeed still family.

A hint of redness tinged Cecilia's eyes as she said, "Come in."

Mark nodded.

He entered the room, leaning on the wall for support as he walked, with Edwin carefully assisting him.

Mark settled onto the sofa, and Cecilia poured him a glass of water.

He said, “Edwin is well-mannered thanks to your guidance."

Cecilia responded with a faint smile.

Despite the outward appearance of calm, Cecilia was not as composed as Mark, and there was a noticeable strain in her demeanor and speech.

If Mark had been in better health, she might have considered asking him to leave already.

Mark was aware of her thoughts. While he had always been proud, he now hesitated to leave.

When Cecilia lowered her head, Mark's eyes drifted to her flat belly.

He estimated that she was about a month pregnant.

Cecilia caught his gaze. She saw his concentrated eyes and felt perplexed.

The atmosphere became awkward.

Mark felt a hint of embarrassment and coincidentally, he felt a pain in his abdomen, which brought his hand to his stomach.

His hand bore the marks of pinpricks.

Mark, who had once been gentle and handsome, now appeared haggard and much thinner. Cecilia's heart ached when she observed the pinpricks.

Had they still been married, she would have cared for him during his days of hardship.