Indeed, the evening air bore a biting chill, with delicate snowflakes gently descending. Czanch's damp cold possessed a distinct character, separating itself from the winter in Duefron.

Still holding her close, Edwin offered a warm smile.

"I should have insisted you wear a dress. Then I could wrap you in my coat like a little kangaroo."

It was an affectionate comment, and Laura, not devoid of sentiment, couldn't help but be touched by it.

Yet, she concealed her emotions beneath a composed exterior.

Snowflakes descended gracefully upon their shoulders.

Strolling along the ancient streets, they found themselves immersed in a distinctive romance. The bright lights from the lanterns cast warm reflections upon the dark gray walls, imparting a sense of coziness to the winter evening.

Edwin remained at ease, while Laura couldn't shake her apprehension about being recognized.

Edwin led her to a bustling eatery; however, all the seats were occupied. The customers enjoyed their meal on that cold night.

The proprietor apologized since there were no tables available at the moment.

Not wanting to have Laura dine in the cold, he contemplated searching for another establishment.

Nonetheless, Laura stood captivated by a dazzling array of holiday-themed spiced cupcakes, seemingly unable to move her feet.

Edwin lightly pinched her palm.

"Are you truly eager to have one?"

Anticipating her possible refusal since she was always such a gentle soul afraid of burdening others, he was surprised when she nodded gently and admitted, “They seem scrumptious."

Her eyes glistened with moisture.

Having born in Czanch, she had relocated to Duefron after a family tragedy and then headed abroad. She had never sampled those delectable local treats before. She yearned to savor them, hopeful that they might evoke happiness.

Observing the crowd relishing the delicacies, she presumed they must be utterly delightful.

Seeing her in that state, Edwin was overcome by a wave of tenderness.

He gently drew her into his embrace and, with one hand, retrieved his wallet. He extracted ten one-hundred-dollar bills and addressed the proprietor, “Please set up a table outside and provide a heater.”