Consider the study your bedroom tonight."

Feigning shock, Mark quipped, “How can you be so heartless, Mrs. Evans? Remember, there are things only your husband can provide."

Cecilia gently nudged him, her stern demeanor quickly softening.

“Enough of that. Go check on Zoey. While she tells us she's okay, I believe she's struggling the most with Edwin's departure."

After a tender kiss, Mark held Cecilia close.

Their journey of love had spanned a decade, eight years of which they'd spent as husband and wife. Their bond was inexplicably deep, and Mark couldn't have been happier.

After a moment, he whispered, "I'll visit mom briefly, and then return. How about I bring some chilled watermelon for you later?"

She nodded appreciatively.

On this balmy summer night, Mark made his way to Zoey's quarters, winding through the garden corridors.

There, he found Zoey helping Edwin pack, all the while whispering words of guidance.

Joining them, Zoey asked, "Did you manage to calm Cecilia?"

He replied with a gentle smile, "She has a tender heart. A few comforting words did the trick. Cecilia and Edwin share a special bond, which makes this separation even more challenging for her."

Zoey slowly settled into her chair, taking a thoughtful sip of her tea.

"Cecilia has endured so much," she remarked, her voice tinged with melancholy.

“You've come a long way, Mark. It's a good thing you found your way back, otherwise you'll forever be in her debt."

Mark pondered Zoey's words.

With each passing year, her age was becoming more evident. Close to 90, the inevitable was approaching, intensifying Cecilia's worries.

Zoey, sensing his thoughts, gave his hand a reassuring pat.

“Edwin has a bright future ahead of him, much like his uncle. It would be unjust to hold him back just because his grandmother is getting old," she advised.

Mark nodded in agreement, but Zoey remained silent, lost in contemplation.