Tina, pulling her aside, whispered confidentially, “That's outdated news. Mr. Evans is with Miss Thomas now. Yes, Miss Laura Thomas, the designer who's been his childhood friend. They're considering marriage, and Vanessa is no longer in the picture. Just be careful not to say the wrong thing and upset Mr. Evans."

The second secretary nodded, understanding the sensitivity of the situation. Despite her penchant for gossip, she discreetly spread the word by the afternoon.

The news quickly circulated throughout the entire company.

Later, Edwin left to pick up Laura at six.

Laura had been busy selecting gifts for her visit to the Fowlers.

She chose a scarf for Rena and a coral pen holder for Waylen, both of exceptional quality.

Yet, Edwin's attention was entirely on Laura.

She was dressed in a dark red woolen dress adorned with small cherry decorations, looking both petite and charming.

He assisted her with her coat and gently kissed her, complimenting, "You look beautiful!"

As Laura took his hand and entered the car, the reality of being openly with him, even visiting his relatives together, felt surreal.

Edwin carefully fastened her seatbelt and noticed Laura looking at him thoughtfully.

He smiled softly, asking, “What are you thinking about?"

In a soft voice, Laura shared, “Before, it was just my adoptive parents. Now, with you, it feels like I have so many more family members."

Edwin's expression turned somber.

He remembered Laura's challenging childhood and how he had mistreated her both then and later.

Silently holding her, he pondered this for a long while.

Laura, feeling at ease in Edwin's arms, reassured him gently, “Edwin, there's no need for guilt. I've moved past those memories."

Edwin looked down, reflecting.

“Have you even forgotten our first time together? I still remember how you cried, scratching my back in your distress. I've never known someone so sensitive to pain."

Laura's cheeks flushed deeply.