Mark paused briefly before speaking again.

“Edwin, it's not that I don't want to agree. Consider this--if Laura is with you, will she only have to confront your mother? The Evans family and the scrutiny of the entire world are in the mix. Sooner or later, what happen in the past will come to light. You're a man; at most, you'll be teased with light banters. But Cathy's past misdeeds will all be pinned on Laura. Can you protect her then?"

Edwin maintained his silence.

All of this had crossed his mind previously; otherwise, he wouldn't have surrendered so readily upon acknowledging his feelings for Laura.

He ignited a cigarette but abstained from smoking it, allowing it to smolder.

Mark rose, and Tina swiftly enveloped him in his coat.

In hushed tones, Mark stated, “This afternoon, I'm heading back to Czanch with your Mom. Peter's celebrating his birthday on New Year's Eve. You should return in advance!"

Edwin gave a nod of agreement.

In an instant, Mark's anger surged once more, "Find a decent gift!

To think you carry out such shameless acts, and Peter is still in the dark!"

Edwin shot him a glance.

Mark huffed, distancing himself.

Once he left, Tina returned, and Edwin carefully directed her, “Prepare a birthday gift for an elder of mine. No budget limit; just make it prestigious and grand."

Tina was well aware of what to do.

Edwin sat in contemplation for quite a while.

Unable to restrain herself, Tina spoke up her mind.

"Mr. Evans, if you genuinely like her, why not take a chance?" Miss Thomas has grown up abroad from a tender age, so perhaps...

Her sentence remained unfinished, but Edwin grasped her implication.

Marry Laura overseas and keep her distant from this place.

Edwin's smile was faint as he remarked, "She might not even want me."