Rena's nerves overwhelmed her, rendering her momentarily speechless.

Closing his eyes, Waylen drew her close, his touch a comforting balm against her apprehension. Gently, he caressed her hair, his voice a tender whisper in the stillness of the room, “It's unnecessary."

Rena's brows furrowed, the depth of his meaning eluding her grasp.

In the days that followed, Cecilia paid two more visits to their sanctuary.

Fortunately, she arrived alone, seeking the solace of food prepared by

Rena rather than the presence of Harold.

Beneath Cecilia's seemingly spoiled nature, Rena discovered a genuine simplicity, as she bestowed gifts and voiced her hopes of nurturing a stronger bond between Rena and Waylen.

Caught between laughter and tears, Rena pondered the unpredictable twists and turns of life.

As Cecilia departed on that fateful night, Waylen coincidentally returned. The tantalizing aroma of food wafted through the air, causing him to wrinkle his nose in playful annoyance.

“Did Cecilia visit just now?" he queried, a mischievous gleam in his eyes.

Astonished, Rena asked, "How did you know?"

As she gently relieved Waylen of his coat, his fingers playfully pinched her rosy cheeks.

"I smelled the fried aroma! You're not particularly fond of fried food." Indeed, Rena preferred lighter, healthier fare, which contributed to her delicate complexion. Waylen admired this aspect of her, deeming it a virtuous habit.

Drawing him closer, Rena wrapped her arms around his neck and pressed her Lips to his.

The energy of youth coursed through Waylen's veins, and with their blossoming connection, their nights together were often filled with passion.

As Rena initiated the kiss, Waylen assumed her intention was to further explore their desires.

Embracing her waist, Waylen reciprocated her advances, their lips locked in a dance of fervor. They were on the verge of succumbing to their shared desire when Rena's soft voice broke the silence, "I actually indulged in fried food today. It was delicious. Cecilia brought an air fryer."

Surprised by this revelation, Waylen's eyes widened.

He hadn't expected Rena to form such a close bond with Cecilia, let alone be influenced by her choices.

He patted her head gently on the head and said, “She always eats junk food. How can you enjoy eating with her?"

Rena shifted awkwardly.

"I don't think it's bad!"