“Are you going to avoid me forever?"

“I'm not," she replied quietly.

“That's good. Why don't you eat something?" he suggested, setting the tray down.

As Edwin straightened up, their eyes locked.

Laura's Lips trembled slightly.

She was baffled by his presence. He had left her once, and now, he was back and kept popping up in her life. This left her more baffled and scared than before.

Edwin took a step closer, gently cradling the back of her head and moving in to kiss her.

Their kiss was gentle yet filled with emotion.

Laura's response was hesitant, her lips quivering as she took a step back.

Edwin, however, held her closer, deepening the kiss with a passion that spoke volumes of his feelings.

Startled, Laura found herself still in his embrace, his intentions clear.

When she found it hard to breathe, she pushed him away. Both were left breathless, Edwin's face showing the flush of intense emotion.

"My Dad has agreed," he said, looking at her earnestly.

Laura's complexion turned pale, and she trembled visibly. She had harbored feelings for Edwin once, drawn to everything he was. But upon learning his true identity, she had never allowed herself to dream of a future with him.

There was an internal struggle within her.

Laura averted her eyes, taking a moment before meeting his gaze again.

“Mr. Evans, I don't understand what you mean."

“I want to be with you. I want to marry you," he stated plainly.

Laura offered a faint smile, her voice soft.

"But I can't. I liked you, Edwin, but I can't imagine being with Uncle Mark's son. I'm sorry, but I just don't have the courage to even dream of it."