With Edwin in tow, Mark headed back. Midway, his phone rang; Waylen was calling.

Assuming the call concerned Cecilia, Mark answered.

Yet, Waylen's first question caught him off guard.

"Is Rena with you?"

Gripping the steering wheel, Mark hesitated before replying, "No, she's not here. I haven't heard from her today."

Concerned, Mark probed further.

Waylen's cough was a prelude to a tensed voice.

“Nothing major, just... we had a bit of a spat."

Mark was familiar with their dynamics.

Over the years, Waylen and Rena maintained a stable relationship, marred only by Waylen's bouts of possessiveness. Despite Rena scaling back her social interactions, any hint of her mingling with the opposite sex would set Waylen's jealousy simmering for days on end.

The situation was complex, neither entirely positive nor negative.

Naturally, Rena wouldn't head home and voice her grievances.

Waylen's possessive nature was well-known in their circle, often fueling gossip.

Far from embarrassed, Waylen wore his infamy with pride.

After the call, Mark reached out to Rena. She answered promptly.

"Uncle Mark?" her voice came through.

In hushed tones, Mark inquired, "What's happening between you and Waylen?"

Rena, amidst drinks with Vera at a bar, couldn't help but chuckle.

"He sent you to check on me, didn't he?"

Mark offered no denial.