Edwin, however, stayed awake, despite being up for nearly a full day.

Holding Laura, he felt a twinge of worry.

The thought of losing Laura to Dylan was unbearable. What if she had developed feelings for Dylan?

This possibility tormented Edwin.

He yearned to marry Laura quickly.

He knew Cecilia might disapprove, but he hoped living with Laura in Duefron and visiting Czanch only on holidays would eventually soften things, especially once they had children...

Since that night, Edwin had been shuttling between the two places.

Five days later, he took Laura to Evans Gardon. Cecilia was courteous but distant. Laura, however, felt grateful for any attention.

After dinner, as Edwin prepared to drive Laura home, Cecilia, lounging and watching TV, casually suggested, “You're heading back to Duefron tomorrow. Sending Laura home tonight and picking her up tomorrow morning could be too troublesome, couldn't it? She can just stay here."

Edwin paused.

He set aside the car keys without consulting Laura, agreeing, “You're right!"

He turned to Laura.

"My bedroom has a small guest room. Would you mind staying there tonight?"

Laura felt a bit shy, but since Cecilia offered, she didn't want to decline.

She whispered, "Sorry for the inconvenience."

Cecilia, pretending to put on a stern face, seemed pleased internally.

Mark observed Cecilia, amused yet silent.

It was good for Laura to be cautious around her seniors.

Olivia, joining them, offered, “Laura can stay in my room!"

Edwin responded, "She's particular about where she sleeps."