On the other end, Rena wryly shook her head.

An expert? Hardly. At home, she felt dominated by Waylen.

Despite feeling somewhat oppressed, Rena found comfort in Waylen's well-maintained appearance. Few men in their thirties remained as appealing.

She despised herself for thinking this way, yet couldn't help it.

Meanwhile, Mark picked up Edwin and returned to Cecilia's residence.

To his surprise, Cecilia was absent.

The servant informed him she'd left for an audition.

Olivia, his young daughter, tottered over, clinging playfully to his leg.

Edwin, setting aside his schoolbag, took Olivia to have some snacks.

Mark decided to call Cecilia.

He asked straightforwardly when she picked up, “Will you be home for dinner?"

After a pause, Cecilia replied, "I need to attend a dinner party tonight."

Feeling a twinge of disappointment, Mark respected her independence.

After a moment's thought, he offered, "I'll pick you up afterward."

Cecilia hesitated, and then suddenly mentioned, "I encountered Elaine.

She's left Chandler."

She didn't elaborate, but Mark understood the implication.

Elaine must have insinuated something to Cecilia.

Mindful of Cecilia's feelings, Mark assured her, "My interest in Elaine is nonexistent. I'm committed only to making our life together meaningful."

Cecilia trusted his words.