Laura's eyes lit up.

"Really? Is Olivia joining us?"

Given that Olivia would soon be going to Duefron for college, Laura's question was natural.

Edwin chuckled softly near her ear.

“If Olivia's coming along, should we book two rooms or three?"

Edwin's words, unashamed and bold, left Laura blushing.

She rested on her side, her head nestled into a snow-white pillow.

Edwin's warmth enveloped her from behind.

She sensed his longing for her, yet she lacked the courage for such intimacy in his home. As the night deepened, his warmth intensified, becoming almost fiery to the touch.

Facing him, Laura lay down.

In a soft voice, she inquired, "Do you need to go to the bathroom and take care of that?"

"Do you pity me?" Edwin teased. He drew her close, gently covering her eyes with his hand.

"Let's get some sleep. We need to rise early tomorrow."

Laura thought little of it and soon drifted off, her head resting on his shoulder.

Before dawn, Edwin stirred her awake.

“What's the matter?" Laura, rubbing her eyes, murmured sleepily, "It's still so early.

Edwin rose to dress.

He had bathed the previous night and now, bare-chested, he began to don his trousers and shirt. His lean, muscular form caused Laura to avert her gaze.

Fully dressed, Edwin approached the bed, leaning over with hands braced on the mattress.

He affectionately pinched her nose.