He even made a detour to the study to tend to some work, allowing Cecilia to unwind to some extent.

Once he concluded his tasks, he returned to the bedroom.

Cecilia settled onto the sofa by the window, her mind adrift.

She still wore the garments she had upon arrival, having skipped the shower and makeup removal.

Mark approached, tenderly tousling her hair as he murmured, "Feeling uneasy?"

Cecilia stammered before answering.

"Yes, I do feel somewhat reserved. I don't think I'm as carefree as I once was."

In truth, they had already reconciled, sharing a bed in their previous home on Gamous Road.

And they had been intimate.

Yet, she couldn't help but feel like a visitor in that place.

Her inhibitions remained intact.

Mark, understanding her unease, seated himself beside her and encouraged her to lean against him.

He gave the situation a careful consideration.

He then said slowly, “I was thoughtless. Next time, I'll bring you here during the day and send you back in the evening. If we wish to spend the night together, we can go to our home on Gamous Road.

Cecilia, if you want to take things slowly, I'm willing to go at your pace. However, it's rather late tonight. We'll have to make do.

I won't make any advances."

Despite her unease, Cecilia remained genuine.

Moreover, they were responsible for two children.

After a heart-to-heart conversation, he suggested she take a shower and provided a modest set of pajamas.

Cecilia complied, showering before returning to the bedroom.