She stood to leave, devoid of hesitation, yet Edwin grabbed her hand once more, his plea persistent, “Laura!”

Laura, her head bowed, asserted, “Release me! Our connection has run its course, with nothing remaining to revisit!"

In truth, Laura's overseas sojourn was primarily for medical intervention.

The physicians had prescribed that she distance herself, a complete release from the shackles of her emotional burdens.

Edwin steadfastly clung to her hand.

Laura, with a sudden upward glance, posed a gentle query, “What do you think you're doing? Beyond mere checks, what else can you offer me, Edwin? You have a girlfriend. Are these checks your gambit to make me your secret lover? Aren't you the one who despises people like my mother the most? Do you aspire to transform me into such a figure?"

With those words, her eyes welled with unshed tears.

Laura was firm on her departure, her gaze never once retracing its steps.

Throughout her lifetime, Laura's affections had been reserved for one man only. It was Edwin.

Yet, within her existence, there existed values more paramount than love.

One such principle was tenacity.

She had traversed a formidable journey to arrive at that point, embraced by the Garcia family's benevolent care. She possessed a family, a treasure she wouldn't jeopardize for the sake of Edwin.

As for the bygones that once burdened their hearts, Laura had settled those accounts with both her emotions and her body.

Laura left the mall, bound for the awaiting car.

Lina sat there, her apprehension palpable, dreading the prospect of old flames reigniting between the young pair, an outcome she sincerely wished to avert.

Laura took her seat.

Leaning gently against Lina's shoulder, she whispered, "Mom, I'd like to reschedule my flight to an earlier date."

Lina concurred with Laura's decision.

She inquired, "Shall we consult Dylan? When would you Like to reschedule it?"

Laura's soft sniffles accompanied her reply.