Once Cecilia was settled in the car, Peter made a move to accompany them but reconsidered, sensing the intimacy of the moment, and instead closed the car door behind Mark.

As the window ascended slowly, Mark's gaze rested on the inebriated woman beside him. Her black hair cascaded freely, and she was adorned in a simplistic long dress, clutching an overcoat.

Her profile was a blend of sophistication and innocence.

Touching her face, Mark felt its feverish heat.

Hearing Cecilia's distressed murmurs, he surmised her emotional turmoil was the impetus behind her excessive drinking.