Mark swallowed his words.

She was still in dreamland.

Lowering his tone, he advised, “In any case, when she does wake up, see her off, alright? Cut out the sneakiness. If you're keen on dating her, do it right. When the time feels right, make a proper proposal.

He tactfully omitted any mention of Cecilia, likely an attempt to ease the situation for Edwin.

A moment of silence hung between them before Edwin spoke again, his voice filled with gratitude.

“Dad, I appreciate it."

Mark grunted and disconnected the call.

Edwin's heart warmed as he returned to the bedroom, where Laura was finally awake.

She was perched on the edge of the bed, gazing pensively out the window.

She wore his shirt from the previous day, which draped loosely over her, accentuating her petite frame.

Edwin tenderly enfolded her in his embrace and softly inquired, “What's on your mind?"

Laura remained perturbed by the events of the night.

Her reluctance to engage with him was evident.

Edwin let out a light chuckle.

“I did bring you pleasure as well, didn't I? And, well, I didn't even insist on-—"

Laura interrupted him abruptly.

He really had no shame, did he?

Back when they used to share a living space, she hadn't fully grasped just how thick-skinned he could be. If only she had known, she surely would've needed some serious contemplation.

Sensing her mood, Edwin understood it was time for a heartfelt conversation.

Before he could utter a word, Laura initiated the conversation, her voice hushed, “Edwin, there are a multitude of issues between us.