Noticing their tears, he chose not to interrupt, instead stepping outside to smoke.

When Laura emerged from the room, he wrapped an arm around her in a comforting gesture, whispering softly, "Wait for me in the car."

With a nod, Laura leaned into his embrace for a moment.

Edwin patted her back reassuringly, watching her descend the stairs before he entered his parents' room. Cecilia, hiding her emotions, dismissed him briskly.

"Go on, Edwin. Today we remember Zoey, not me."

A mix of laughter and tears escaped Edwin.

He sighed, a lightness in his voice.

“Okay, I'll ask Dad to come and cheer you up."

Cecilia shot back playfully, “I'm perfectly capable of cheering myself up."

Edwin made his way downstairs and joined Laura in the car.

He glanced at Laura, her eyes still red, and tenderly wiped her tears, smiling softly.

"You look Like a little rabbit when you cry."

Laura turned her face, a hint of embarrassment in her gesture.

Edwin chuckled, rolling down the window to wave at Mark.

As they drove off, Mark's figure shrank in the distance. Edwin held Laura's hand gently, asking in a soft voice, "Do you like it here?"

Laura nodded in response.

Edwin talked about Evans Gardon, his family, and young Olivia.

Then, he spoke softly.

"Dad can't manage forever. In a few years, I'll need to return to Czanch. It's quieter than Duefron. Would you be okay with that?"

Laura agreed internally but hesitated to express it openly.