Laura kept nodding, torn between tears and snickers.

Cecilia dismissed her.

“Alright, off you go."

Laura hesitated, prompting Cecilia to ask, “What's wrong?"

Suddenly, Laura hugged her, wordless.

Cecilia, naturally tender-hearted, felt her defenses melt. She softly said, “Alright, Mark told you everything. Be happy with Edwin. I'1L talk to Lina about formalizing the wedding date and everything else."

Laura remained silent, crying in Cecilia's embrace.

She recognized Cecilia's deep-seated pain, yet her acceptance for Edwin's sake was touching.

Laura lingered, not wanting to leave.

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

“If you feel guilty towards me, just stay with Edwin and never leave him."

She understood her son's nature; once he committed his heart, it was unchangeable.

This was the only promise she sought from Laura.

Tears filled Laura's eyes as she nodded vigorously.

“I will!"

Cecilia, her voice rough with emotion, wiped her own tears away.

"Once you're married, you're my daughter too. Let's forget the past.

I have, and you must too."

Laura's eyes brimmed with tears, reflecting her sorrow and gratitude.

Suddenly, footsteps sounded from the stairwell. Edwin had arrived.