Mark watched over her with a soft, affectionate gaze, as he served the rest of the noodles to the eagerly awaiting children.

Olivia delighted in the flavorsome meal. Once finished, she was gently ushered to the children's room by her brother, Edwin, who solemnly vowed to watch over her until she reached the age of eight.

"At eight years old, you'll need to start sleeping on your own," he informed her with a mix of earnestness and maturity before escorting her away.

Mark, watching this tender sibling moment, couldn't help but smile wistfully.

"This guy. He's growing up too quickly," he mused aloud.

Later, after attending to a brief task in his study, Mark returned to find Cecilia emerging from the children's room. He inquired softly, “Are they asleep?"

With a gentle nod, Cecilia closed the door behind her.

In the hall, only a single wall lamp remained lit, casting a dim, warm glow that suffused the space with a cozy, slightly dreamlike ambiance.

Mark approached, his steps measured and calm.

Cecilia lifted her gaze to meet his. With a gentle grasp, he tenderly held her hand and bestowed upon her a kiss filled with affection.

The kiss, tender and full of shared history, was both anticipated and a relief. Suddenly, she found herself gently pressed against the wall, lost in the moment. His hand tenderly caressed her waist, his whisper softly telling her how much he wanted her.

A blush tinged Cecilia's cheeks.

Her lips parted slightly, hesitantly murmuring, "Not here, please."

Mark, with a soft touch, brushed her lips with his own.

He gazed into her eyes, asking in a hushed tone, "Where would you prefer?"

Overwhelmed by his directness, Cecilia wrapped her arms around his neck, playfully suggesting, “Let's move to the bedroom."

Lifting her in his arms, Mark continued to kiss her, walking towards their bedroom.

The tension and worries of the night had dissipated, giving way to a night filled with romance and connection.

The bedroom door swung open and then shut behind them.

Cecilia found herself gently laid upon the soft bed.