He drove on, reaching his company's parking lot.

After parking, he hesitated for a moment before dialing Laura's number. She didn't answer, leaving him to wonder if she was upset or crying.

Running his fingers over his phone, Edwin was a mix of annoyance and confusion.

He decided to call Alexis. The phone was answered promptly.

“Take Laura out for dinner," he said tersely.

Alexis responded with a light chuckle, "Why should I spending time cheering your girl?"

Edwin's tone was frigid as he spoke.

“Marcus has always been after a certain oil drilling project, hasn't he? I'll let him have it."

Alexis, intrigued, asked, “But why should I get involved? That's a gain for Marcus."

Edwin's frustration was palpable.

“Just name your price, I'll meet it."

Alexis agreed, much to his relief.

After the call, he sat lost in thought.

He knew his love for Laura was genuine, yet he also recognized the limitations of what he could offer her. Even without Vanessa in the picture, a future together seemed unattainable.

Walking into the company, he was met by Tina's surprised look.

She had expected him to be with Miss Smith for her wedding dress fitting.

Removing his coat, Edwin walked into his office.

"Bring me the file for the Zenith Corporation partnership."

Tina nodded.

While fetching the documents, she mused to herself about how love troubles often turned men into workaholics.