As she dished out some food into a plate, pressing it down firmly, she handed it to Edwin.

“Here, this should fill you up. But remember, what's in other's plate isn't for you. Your path is different now. It seems that Smith girl was dropping hints, both openly and behind the scenes. She might know something. I can look after Laura, but you also need to handle Vanessa and her cryptic ways. If Laura owed you anything, she's Long since settled that debt."

Lina's frustration was evident.

Edwin's past with Laura was one thing, but Vanessa bringing it up and being sarcastic was unacceptable.

Tears welled up in Lina's eyes, a mother's heartache evident, yet she had to maintain composure in front of Vanessa and everyone else.

Edwin softly apologized.

In the warm light of the kitchen, he assured her in a low voice, “I'll stay away from Laura. And I'll speak with Vanessa."

"That's for the best," Lina said, leaving the kitchen.

Left alone, Edwin stood silently, hearing the lively conversations in the hall. Yet, he felt disconnected, his mind drifting to the image of Laura laughing in the snow, wishing he could be there instead, even in the freezing cold.

It was Christmas, and the house was bustling with a multitude of people, yet an oddly eerie atmosphere hung in the air.

Vanessa also found it quite dull.

As she left, Edwin walked her to her car.

Despite the late hour, the pristine snow illuminated the world with an intense brilliance, enabling them to see each other's faces clearly.

Edwin was not wearing a coat.

He sported a white shirt beneath a stylish dark blue cashmere sweater, appearing both handsome and debonair.

Vanessa leaned against the car door, her smile faint.

“Aren't you going to drive me home, Edwin?"

Edwin retrieved a pack of cigarettes from his pocket, lighting one as the red tip glowed in the night. Vanessa, comprehending his unspoken message, chose not to press the issue further.

Such was the nature of business!

Nevertheless, she hadn't anticipated Edwin being so uncompromising.