Peter always picked the most inopportune conversational topics.

She emerged from the kitchen, wiping her hands clean, and hummed lightly.

“Come, let's eat! You talk too much.”

Peter, oblivious to the tumult within her mind, said casually, “Is it wrong to bring this up? Over the years, every birthday of Laura's, Cecilia always arranges a gift or something of the sort! That girl might be stubborn, but she's got a softer side. With our ties with the Evans family, Laura can't avoid them forever, can she? We're raising a daughter, not a kitten or a puppy. Even prisoners see the light of day eventually, right? And everyone adores our Laura."

Lina rolled her eyes inwardly.

Oh, how naive he was!

The past was never swept away, but the grudge only deepened.

Bolstered in his convictions, Peter held forth when the doorbell chimed.

He hastened to the door.

Peering through the peephole, he saw Edwin.

As he swung open the door, he gleefully declared to his wife and daughter, "See, Edwin's come to pay me a visit the moment he learned I was in Duefron! I won't let him off lightly. The boy wears his corporate facade like armor, much like his father, all veneer. Today, I'll outdrink him!"

Laura and Lina harbored intentions of stopping him, but time had slipped through their fingers.

Peter had already flung the door ajar.

Before them stood Edwin, immaculately attired, his handsome countenance undiminished.

Peter gave his shoulder a hearty pat, grinning.

“Look at you, tracking us down in Duefron! Well then, let's indulge in some spirits today!" "The chilly weather provides the perfect excuse to warm up.

I'll have the driver take you home later."

Lina finally broke her silence.

"Do you believe all people are like you, with nothing better to do?

I'd wager Edwin, with his bustling social calendar, rarely finds the time to linger here for five minutes, let alone a meal. Isn't that right, Edwin?" she inquired further.