Now, unexpectedly, their paths crossed in Duefron.

Lina, sensing the undercurrents, was similarly taken aback. Running into Edwin on a blind date was unforeseen. The complexities of Laura's ties to them were unsettling.

Cecilia caught sight of the scene.

Concealing her surprise, Lina improvised.

"So Edwin is meeting someone. I'm here checking on Laura; she's been under the weather.

Dylan alerted me, and concern brought me promptly to her side."

Cecilia paused, recalling her observation at the hospital the day before. With feigned casualness, she offered, “Is her condition serious? Should I arrange for a specialist?"

Laura remained silent, withdrawing her gaze from Edwin, shaking her head subtly in response.

Cecilia, noting Laura's reticence, felt a pang of sympathy. She turned to Dylan.

"Is this Laura's partner?"

Under normal circumstances, Dylan would never stir Laura's emotions negatively.

But now, witnessing Edwin's callousness-having discarded Laura and now on a date-Dylan felt compelled to act.

With a protective gesture, he enveloped Laura's shoulders.

“Yes, Laura and I have been together for nearly eight years. It seems we'll Likely marry before your son. Rest assured, when the time comes, our wedding invitation will grace your estate, Mr. Evans and his whole family included."

Cecilia's naivety didn't catch the undercurrents.

Mark, however, perceived Dylan's biting tone.

Had Edwin done something they didn't know of?

As Dylan concluded, he looked down at Laura, who met his gaze, eyes brimming with tears.

Dylan, through clenched teeth, feigned an allergy.

"I seem to have developed an allergy to goose. Maybe we should go to another restaurant."