He bought it during his stroll with Laura the previous night.

Olivia's face lit up with delight as she selected a piece of candy to savor.

As Edwin stepped inside the house, the butler leaned in and whispered, “Sir, your father wishes to see you in the study."

Edwin nodded and proceeded as instructed.

Inside, Mark sat, cigarette in hand.

Upon Edwin's entrance, he promptly extinguished his cigarette and inquired, “Did you escort her back home?"

Edwin responded with a soft hum of affirmation.

Mark didn't react with anger but instead posed a calm question.

“What's your plan?"

Edwin spoke in hushed tones.

“Let's get through the new year's holiday first. We've been separated for quite some time now, so I'd like to give her some time to think. If Laura agrees, we can arrange a dinner involving both families. I'll speak to Mom about it."

Mark let out a cold, mocking chuckle.

"Look at you, all grown up and calculating! Planning each move meticulously, aren't you?"

He continued, “You observed your Mom softening up and conceived the idea of bringing Laura home for the New Year's Day to win her over.

Step by step, gaining her favor, right? Impressive, Mr. Evans. Not only do you excel at deceiving young women, but you also possess the art of charming your own mother. And Olivia, she's your little informant as well, isn't she?"

Under normal circumstances, Edwin might have countered Mark's words, but he chose to remain silent this time.

He was counting on his father on this!

Cecilia always heeded Mark's advice. When it came to persuasion, Edwin knew he lagged far behind his father.

While Mark's tone dripped with sarcasm, he couldn't deny that the young man possessed a certain shrewdness.

In truth, it wasn't the opportune moment to make their relationship public.