Cecilia understood that Mark's illness was grave.

Recovery was uncertain.

Death loomed over him as a real possibility.

Yet his choice seemed designed to prevent her from bidding him farewell.

In Cecilia's eyes, Mark's actions felt unbearably cruel.

Cecilia's voice quivered as she said, “Ross, please accompany me to my prenatal check-up."

Ross's heart trembled, and he wordlessly escorted her out of the room.

Afterward, no one mentioned the incident again.

Later, Waylen did some digging and discovered that Mark's condition had worsened that night. Peter had contacted the hospital in Rouemn and arranged for Mark to be transferred overnight.

Mark left behind only a letter for Cecilia.

He had departed without a trace of hope.

He chose not to allow Cecilia to see him for the last time.

From that day on, Mark had vanished from both the Fowler family and Duefron.

Almost everyone forgot there had been such a person in their midst.

Yet, Edwin whispered “dad" in his sleep at night, calling out to Mark as if he were still present.

After that day, Cecilia neither called Mark nor reached out to Peter.

In her mind, Mark ceased to exist...

Winter settled in, casting a chilly ambiance over the land.

During the evening of New Year's Eve, the members of the Fowler family gathered within the grandeur of their mansion.

Laughter and joy filled the air, especially with the children running around, their voices adding a lively melody to the night.