But he wasn't about to let the moment slip away; he playfully cornered her against the counter.

Having handled mandarin fish just moments ago, the scent clung to his hands.

He didn't want that scent to transfer to her pristine clothes, so he held her carefully, using his hips to maintain the gentle pressure.

Rena's cheeks flushed a vibrant shade of pink.

She cast an anxious glance towards the kitchen door.

“Any moment now, the staff might walk in," she murmured.

Waylen grinned.

“Trust me; they'll turn a blind eye even if they see anything."

He then leaned in, sealing their conversation with a tender kiss.

He might've started out in jest, but the intimacy between them was undeniable and electric.

He gazed at her with nothing but adoration.

Feeling a mix of emotions, Rena lightly pushed against his chest.

"Your hands have that fishy scent. Remember, Leonel and Edwin are growing up, picking up on more than we realize. Shouldn't you, being their father and uncle, be a role model?"

His response was a playful nuzzle against her nose.

"Trying to paint me as the villain, Mrs. Fowler?" he said, his voice thick with amusement.

But, maintaining the playful banter, Waylen then refocused on preparing the fish.

Rena, her thoughts far removed from earlier concerns, adjusted her dress and combed her fingers through her brown locks.

She left the kitchen, not wanting to tempt fate further with Waylen's unpredictable antics.

In the living room, life went on as usual. The children were engrossed in their own worlds.

With Waylen's conspicuous absence, Alexis had wriggled out of her chair and was now playing with Olivia, while Cecilia lounged on the couch, munching on some chips.