In the midst of this, Cecilia handed Laura a delicate box.

"Here's your gift," she said.

Laura was taken aback, her eyes welling up slightly.

Mark, too, presented her with a gift, smiling.

“Aren't you going to accept Cecilia's gift?"

Laura hesitated, her emotions evident.

She felt uneasy, unsure about her place in the house and whether she was genuinely welcome. She could tell that Cecilia had sensed something but she still chose to offer her a gift.

As she reached out to take it, Edwin's hand was quicker.

“Laura doesn't have pockets. I'll hold it for her," he said, almost making a statement with his action.

The room fell silent.

This gesture was almost like an official announcement, subtle yet clear.

All eyes turned to Cecilia.

Edwin, knowing he was pushing boundaries, waited for his mother's response. He was determined to be with Laura, regardless of her opinion.

Cecilia's expression shifted subtly.

She was affected by the situation.

Her son was with the daughter of someone she hated.

Edwin sought her approval.

Cecilia pondered. She knew she wouldn't stand in their way.

Edwin had to live his own life, and she couldn't prevent them from being together just because of her own resentment towards the poor girl's mother. That would not only keep Laura from the Evans family but also distance Edwin.

Her emotions were mixed and hard to articulate.