Finally, as they lay there exhausted, Edwin kissed her hair, his voice low and hoarse.

"Stay home these next few days, and don't go out."

He was protective, not wanting her to be hurt by the swirling rumors.

Laura was delicate and timid, and he couldn't bear the thought of her facing any harsh words.

Laura gently shook her head, nestling against Edwin's shoulder.

“Edwin, I can't just stay indoors forever. If I'm to be with you, it's not right for me to comfortably hide behind you while you face the world on my behalf. That wouldn't be fair to our relationship.

I have my own job, my own life to live. Rumors and gossip—they can't hurt me. I need to face them, just as I stand by you," she murmured with resolve.

Edwin found it hard to accept, wanting to protect her, but he knew she was right. She couldn't live her life in hiding.

He reluctantly agreed, holding her close.

In a soft voice, he asked, "Laura, do you regret being with me?"

She shook her head firmly.

Her feelings for Edwin were genuine, and she felt no regret. In fact, the public revelation of their relationship had actually brought her a sense of relief. Her main concern had always been Cecilia.

When the news went viral, Cecilia had called and assured her, “Laura, Edwin and his father will handle everything, so don't worry.”

Laura seemed calm now.

But that very afternoon after she hung up the phone, when she was alone, Laura had cried silently for a long while.

She felt unworthy of this love, yet deeply attached to Edwin and his family.

The next morning, Edwin was up early.

He received a call from Alexis, her voice carrying a cold edge.

"The Smith family wants to negotiate. I've agreed. We'll meet at my law firm at 10 am."

Holding his phone in one hand, Edwin buckled his belt with the other.