A week elapsed before their paths converged once more. He finally saw Laura again.

It occurred within the confines of an Evans family-owned shopping haven.

There stood Laura, engaged in retail therapy alongside Lina, who cradled a multitude of bags as though bracing for an imminent polar expedition despite the calendar's insistence that it was still autumn.

A pair of down jackets had found their way into her shopping conquest.

Edwin's serendipitous encounter with them unfolded during his routine rounds.

His stare honed in on Laura, rendering Lina a mere specter by her side.

Ever the shrewd observer, Tina instantly sensed the palpable tension and blurted out, "What a coincidence!"

Edwin snapped back from his reverie and inquired with gentle concern, "Mrs. Garcia, are you going on an overseas journey?"

Lina was already nettled by his presence.

She didn't bother concealing her emotions.

"It's Laura who's bound to go abroad. In search of solace, a wellspring of inspiration."

"Are you accompanying her?" Edwin pressed, seeking clarification.

Lina's retort came swiftly.

“Hey! No, not at all. We've got Dylan, remember? He's a world traveler, knows the lay of the land like the back of his hand, and he's the epitome of kindness and consideration.

I couldn't be more at ease entrusting Laura to his care! If, by some cosmic miracle, sparks of romance were to fly between them, Peter and I would be relieved for the rest of our lives since Laura would be in good hand."

Edwin's expression soured.

Once Lina concluded her words, she then led Laura away.

Yet, Edwin seized Laura's wrist, his plea earnest.

"Just a few words."

Laura, unwilling to engage, delicately disentangled herself, stating firmly, “We've got nothing to discuss."