So Edwin was both headstrong and mindful of his sister.

Before Mark could get a word out, Edwin beat him to it.

"I messed up.

I'll take my lumps. But I'm not sorry."

Rage quivered in Mark's chest.

Damn.

Years ago, Mark, unbridled, would've spanked Edwin without a second thought.

But confidence eluded him now.

Just then, Zoey shuffled over, quaking. Spotting her cherished grandson on his knees, her worry surged, and she tried to hoist him up. But Edwin's stubbornness rooted him in place.

A hazy memory crossed Edwin's mind.

Laura's eyes, brimming with tears as he shredded her sketchbook.

She seemed on the verge of tears.

She was crying. So him kneeling seemed trivial.

Zoey, failing to budge Edwin, whirled on Mark, her words a heated rush.

“What on earth did he do for you to treat him this harshly? By your logic, Cathy should've faced worse, many times over, right?

Cecilia and the kids have weathered so much due to your past escapades. You fret over someone else's child; what about your own?

Or are Edwin and Olivia not worthy of being your kids? Fine, I'll take them away now. We'll steer clear of you. But let's get one thing straight, Mark. You're no big shot now. Clinging to past glories, expecting others to prop you up? Nonsense! I'd be first to disown you."

Mark's smile was tinged with sadness.

"Mom, you're misunderstanding."

"Then clarify, will you? We've barely managed to bring the family together. Cecilia's parents have been understanding, accepting her return to our home. What have you done as a father, as a husband?