Rena refrained from further questioning.

Following the meal, Rena and Cecilia attended to the children's belongings, while Mark was summoned to Korbyn's study.

The door closed behind him.

Korbyn's jesting ceased.

He motioned for Mark to take a seat.

The two grown men faced each other, their expressions serious.

In truth, Korbyn cherished his daughter deeply, valuing her even more than his own reputation. Korbyn let out a soft sigh.

"I don't oppose your relationship, but I won't actively support it either. Whether you two make it in the long run depends on you. Mark, I'm being honest with you. Cecilia isn't young and reckless anymore. She can't chase after you as she did seven years ago."

Mark felt a pang of sadness.

"I understand."

Korbyn waved his hand.

There was a tinge of sorrow in his expression, but he had something important to say.

"She's been doted on since childhood. All her hardships trace back to you. As a father, I can't say much because she cares for you deeply.

Of course, you've made numerous sacrifices for her. Mark, I'm not asking for anything else at this moment. I just wish you could be there for her a while longer."

Having spoken those words, Korbyn turned away.

His eyes glistened with moisture.

His beloved daughter was barely in her early thirties.

Mark, considerably older and plagued by frail health, weighed heavily on Korbyn's heart.

But what options did Korbyn have?

Mark sat in contemplative silence for an extended period, grappling with the very concerns that had been voiced by Korbyn.