Removing his coat, Edwin agreed and sat down.

"Certainly!"

As Peter made his move in chess, he casually inquired, "When did you two start seeing each other?"

Edwin, feeling compelled, responded.

As Peter kept bombarding Edwin with numerous questions regarding their relationship, Laura, a bit restless, soon excused herself upstairs. Penney observed with a smile.

“Laura's just shy!"

Edwin's eyes followed her up the stairs.

Peter tapped his hand, "Concentrate!"

Edwin refocused and played the game until midnight when Peter finally let him go.

Edwin decided not to go home.

He stretched, saying, "Happy New Year, Uncle Peter," before taking his coat and heading upstairs as if it was his own house.

Peter, surprised, pointed and said to his wife, "Isn't he a bit too comfortable here?"

Lina responded, "You're the one who let this happen!"

Peter retorted, “Laura's the one who brought him here. I'm obviously not that attractive!"

Lina's laughter filled the room.

Peter embraced her.

“Let's just leave the youngsters alone.”

Upstairs, Edwin found Laura awake.

She had bathed and was now lounging on the sofa, fiddling with the gifts she received.

It was a scene of youthful innocence.