I think it's about Edwin and Vanessa."

Showing no sign of jealousy, Mark responded pragmatically, “Go see him. You saw how Edwin is. You know what to discuss."

His response indicated a certain level of resignation.

Cecilia, observing her husband, ventured cautiously, "Mark, are you and Edwin keeping something from me?

Mark tenderly caressed her head, offering a gentle reassurance.

"Nothing of the sort; don't overthink it."

The next day, at Duefron's most high-end restaurant, Thomas had arranged a private room for a meeting with Cecilia.

Their past relationship, though not culminating in marriage, had ended on good terms.

Now, they were here to discuss the affairs of their children.

His extra attentiveness left Cecilia slightly uneasy. She said softly, “Thomas, I understand why you've asked to meet today, but Edwin isn't a child. Some decisions aren't ours to make. If we force our choice on him and they're unhappy, won't that breed resentment?"

Thomas was a man of refinement.

He took a moment to consider his words before speaking.

"Vanessa really likes Edwin, but it seems he has someone else in his heart, Cecilia. But you should know the combined influence of the Evans, Fowler, and Smith families would be significant."

Slightly flustered, Cecilia responded, “I'm not really into the business side of things. Mark rarely discusses such matters with me."

Thomas was taken aback, then smiled.

Despite the years, deep down, Cecilia remained that sweet and innocent girl, uninvolved in the intricate world of business and politics.

Lightening the mood, he said, "Perhaps I was being too materialistic."

His thoughts then drifted to Laura. After Vanessa had mentioned her, his brother Weldon had tasked him with addressing the situation. He remembered Laura was quiet and reserved, much like Cecilia, and strikingly beautiful.

There was also a deeper connection between her and the Evans family.

Weldon's plan was clear--if the Evans family found out about Edwin's connection with Laura, they would certainly oppose it, which would ensure Vanessa and Edwin's marriage arrangement remained intact.