With this in mind, Zoey patted the back of Cecilia's hand and said, "I need you to go somewhere with me tomorrow.”

Cecilia fixed her gaze on Zoey.

Zoey maintained a facade of composure, yet Cecilia discerned the heartache etched into her face.

The fear that lurked beneath also didn't go unnoticed.

Zoey had envisioned peacefully enjoying her twilight years, especially when Mark had now returned, narrowly escaping a grim fate.

Her love for him ran deep, but unexpectedly, danger had crept perilously close.

Cecilia felt a profound empathy for Zoey.

For she, too, had been gripped by fear during those harrowing moments.

Cecilia stood by Zoey throughout the night. Meanwhile, Mark guided Edwin in his homework within the study, with Olivia nestled contentedly on his lap, occasionally tugging at his attention.

Hours went by and to Zoey's surprise, it was already ten in the evening.

Following a stroll through the garden, Zoey realized Cecilia was still trailing her like a shadow. Zoey smiled and remarked, “It's getting late. You don't plan to spend the night in my bed, do you?

Don't worry about me. I'm really fine."

Cecilia blushed slightly.

Zoey ushered her upstairs.

Up on the second floor, Mark was not in the master bedroom. Cecilia then found him in the children's room.

Edwin lay sound asleep.

Mark reclined against the headboard, Olivia nestled upon him. Olivia was in her white onesie, still damp from a recent shower as she lay on Mark's chest, her head tilted slightly upwards.

In a hushed tone, Mark read a fairy tale to her.

When he reached the part about the wicked queen, she buried her face into his belly.

Cecilia lingered by the door, a hint of envy in her demeanor.