Recalling his own youthful feelings for Cecilia, Thomas found himself struggling to reveal such news to her.

The conversation eventually veered away from the marriage topic, ending somewhat ambiguously.

Returning home, Cecilia told Mark her day.

She had Little of substance to share about the conversation she had with Thomas, instead mentioning the pleasantness of the restaurant and the remarkable dishes of the new chef.

Mark, somewhat exasperated, remarked, "I sent you to talk important business, not to reminisce about old times with Mr. Smith."

With a teasing tone, Cecilia replied, "We did have our dates back in the day, and you were quite supportive, even blessing me as a well-wisher. Has your tolerance waned with age?"

Mark defended himself, "Are you calling me narrow-minded?"

Unable to resist the moment, he then scooped Cecilia up and gently tossed her onto the bed.

Her playful resistance was met with affection.

Nestled against his shoulder, she murmured, “At our age, and you're still so spirited."

As Mark's hands wandered under her clothes, he teased her, “Age hasn't dampened your spirits, has it?"

Cecilia's cheeks flushed with a mix of embarrassment and delight.

What followed was a passionate expression of their love—

Afterwards, Cecilia playfully scolded him as she pinched his waist, "You really got carried away!"

She contemplated taking a bath to soothe her soreness.

Mark retrieved an ointment from the bedside table, applying it gently to her. His voice was soft and tender.

“I might have been a bit too enthusiastic, just a bit jealous after your lunch date with another man."

Cecilia felt a surge of warmth in her heart.

She hugged him closely, her voice playful yet curious.

"Thomas mentioned Edwin has someone special in his heart. Has he spoken to you about this?"