His words grew more outrageous.

Olivia's face flushed red; she hid beside Mark, eavesdropping secretly.

Lina struck Peter, commanding, “Eat your meal; quit meddling in the kids' affairs. Is being fit a crime? Must everyone be as skinny as a stick?"

Peter sipped wine, tearing into a sizable piece of meat.

Edwin abstained from alcohol and remained silent.

Peter eventually became drunk and was quite noisy. After a while, he was too intoxicated and Lina had to assist him in leaving. Mark, expressing concern, said, “Peter's had too much to drink! Let the driver take you home."

Lina offered no resistance.

In that moment, Edwin grabbed his car keys.

“Allow me to drive you."

Lina, witnessing this, sensed a headache looming. She faked a smile and said, “Let the driver handle it. You've just returned today, Edwin; it's best you rest early."

"It's fine, really." Edwin reassured calmly.

He shifted his attention to Olivia.

"Didn't you want to go out and see the lanterns for the holiday?"

Olivia promptly responded, "Yes, yes, yes!"

She embraced Edwin's arm, laying her small head on his shoulder.

“Oh, Eddie, you're the best!"

Reaching into his coat pocket, she pulled out a small gift box.

Lina found herself with no option but to agree.

They set off. Olivia sat beside Edwin, chatting incessantly. After a while, she grumbled, “You're not responding! You promised to join me to see the lanterns but how can we enjoy it with this atmosphere?"

Edwin offered a faint smile.