After a prolonged silence, Cecilia's soft voice broke through.

“Mark, you don't need to do this. I'm stronger than you think!"

She smiled faintly.

"Those events are long past. There's no sense in letting old grudges interfere with their happiness... I've grown wiser over the years."

Mark cherished her innocence, despite the years that separated them.

He was grateful for the lifetime she had spent with him, knowing his time to give her was finite.

As they sat together, Mark pondered the future, relieved that their well-raised son, Edwin, would be there to look after Cecilia in the future.

Their conversation ceased, each year's end marking one less year together, making their time all the more precious.

Olivia, bubbling with energy, interrupted their tranquility.

“Dad, can we set off more fireworks?" she asked, her eyes wide and hopeful.

Mark gently stroked Olivia's head.

"Ask the butler to help you," he suggested.

Olivia pouted.

“He's scared and cold, already hiding under the blankets!"

Mark, adoring his child, donned his coat and beckoned Cecilia.

"Let's go down and watch."

Cecilia hesitated, but Mark led her downstairs regardless.

The sky erupted with fireworks, and Olivia's excitement was contagious.

Mark glanced at Cecilia, who still radiated youthful charm.

He reminisced about a New Year's Eve at Fortune Square in Duefron that year.