Edwin hung his coat and hugged her from behind, kissing her neck Lightly...

Laura turned to him.

“Aren't you going back?"

Edwin was blunt in his reply.

“I'm staying tonight."

Laura suggested he should Leave.

But Edwin, unabashed, quipped, "Your father said I should stay. So, where should I sleep? With you or on the sofa?"

Laura, realizing he was serious, bit her lip.

She hesitated, and then said, “The sofa is yours tonight.”

Edwin chuckled and kissed her gently.

"Join me on the sofa, in that case."

Laura blushed and gently elbowed him.

His laughter rang out, a sound of pure joy. In his life, filled with business and studies, moments like this were rare.

This was a new experience for Edwin.

Laura, charmed by his demeanor, soon relaxed. Edwin, with a playful tone, said, “Our little Laura is a year older today! Ah, your gift!"

He produced a small package from his pocket and handed it to her.

Laura opened it carefully, teasing him, “What do you mean ‘Little Laura'? I'm actually a year older than you!"

Edwin just smiled warmly.

In her palm lay a delicate gold locket, beautifully crafted with their names engraved on it.

A symbol of a shared future!