Mark's hand brushed through her long hair, comforting her.

After a prolonged silence, he softly proposed, "You must be hungry.

I'll prepare something for us."

“Okay," she replied, her eyes reddened from crying.

Gently patting her shoulder, Mark suggested, “Freshen up in the bathroom. We'll eat once you're done.”

Cecilia complied.

Moments later, in the master bathroom, she turned the faucet, letting cool water cascade over her face to regain her composure.

The mirror reflected her visage.

Her eyes were tinged with red, her complexion flushed.

Cecilia caught her breath.

It had been a considerable time since she'd last blushed, a reaction only Mark could elicit. Despite the ordeals they'd weathered over the years, he alone had the power to stir such profound emotion within her.

She had attempted to move on, to explore relationships with others.

She craved a fresh start.

But it just wouldn't work. Her brother had pointed out the undeniable truth--she hadn't moved past Mark because her feelings for him remained deep-seated.

Now, reunited with Mark, her heart seemed to reawaken, pulsating with life once more.

“Dinner's ready. Come, let's eat," Mark invited, his tone tender.

Cecilia responded with a simple affirmation.

As she emerged, she found him poised at the bedroom doorway. She averted her gaze, intending to sidestep him, but he halted her escape.

Backing her against the door, he lowered his voice a husky note evident.

"Your flushed complexion... it's enchanting."