Was it for toying her feelings?

Was it because she had unraveled his real identity?

Would he have extended his apology if she had remained kept in the dark?

Tina arrived bearing coffee and tactfully retreated, leaving them ensconced in their private exchange.

Laura absently nibbled on her straw, a subconscious refuge when words proved elusive.

Yearning for her to find her voice, Edwin tenderly overlaid his hand upon hers.

Laura's hand sent a chill through Edwin's fingertips.

Startled, Laura swiftly retracted her hand, shaking his loose.

The atmosphere hung heavy with discomfort, casting a pall over Edwin.

He bowed his head, his voice strained and subdued.

“Laura, whether you choose to believe it or not, I carry the weight of my transgressions towards you. This is reparation."

With deliberate intent, he retrieved a checkbook, penning a sequence of figures.

The sum held the power to bestow a life of comfort, even opulence, upon Laura for the remainder of her days.

Laura's gaze fixed upon the check resting on the table.

After a contemplative pause, she blinked gently, her voice tinged with detachment.

“There's no need for your remorse, Edwin! After all, not every relationship finds its way to fulfillment, and I was really happy during that time. So, you don't need to compensate me."

“If you feel this indebted, then kindly stop looking for me!"

She continued, “Let's pretend nothing ever happened between us. It would serve you and Miss Smith best. I believe she'd prefer to remain unburdened by our past."

Laura concluded her words and retrieved her handbag.

"My apologies. Time's up!"