"Why should I feel any envy towards her?" Cecilia shot back.

"If she's to your liking, keep her close. Perhaps she'll brighten your days."

Mark chuckled at her response.

Irritated, Cecilia shut her script.

"I'm taking Edwin and Olivia home for dinner."

“We have a meal prepared here," Mark noted.

“Waylen's been trying his hand at new recipes," Cecilia replied.

“They're delightful. I promised I'd taste his latest creations tonight."

Mark raised an eyebrow, puzzled.

Today was just an ordinary Tuesday.

Why was Waylen at home cooking instead of at his office?

As Cecilia gathered Edwin's belongings, she said, “Waylen's taken a week off. He coordinated with Jazlyn so he could spend more time with the children."

Her statement had a clear undercurrent of annoyance.

With that, she ushered the children out.

Once they were gone, Mark collapsed onto his bed, deep in thought.

He began to think that perhaps Waylen posed the most significant challenge to his romantic aspirations.

Mark muttered under his breath, labeling Waylen with a few choice words.

He was still miffed that, because of a mere disagreement over stock in a project, Waylen had resorted to such tactics.

From Cecilia's viewpoint, Waylen's decision to take time off for the kids was commendable.

Mark, feeling vexed, tossed and turned.