Remaining in silence for an extended moment, Laura, her small hand tightly holding Edwin's, felt a nervous anticipation.

Although she didn't voice it, Edwin sensed her concern about his father's opinion and the potential for disappointment.

Breaking the quietude with a chuckle, Edwin teased, “Dad, are you so thrilled that words fail you?"

Mark playfully smacked him on the head with the marriage certificate.

"You're getting too bold!"

Then, addressing Laura with a soft sincerity, he added, "From now on, we are real family!"

A tingling sensation touched Laura's nose as the heartfelt words settled in.

Mark tentatively extended his arms, and after a brief pause, Laura approached and embraced him with gentle warmth.

A pang of regret coursed through Mark.

He wished he had been more attentive to her in her childhood, offering hugs and comfort. Now, years later, she was his daughter-in-law, and only then could he hold her close.

At least, he still had a chance to love her as a father figure.

He wished his son would also treat her right.

With a tender pat on her head, Mark suggested, "I'll have Edwin help me serve dinner; you go upstairs and check on Cecilia. She's discovered some lovely things in the cabinets for you."

Laura felt a surge of emotion, a mix of joy and melancholy, as Mark continued to pat her.

Obeying the suggestion, Laura ascended the stairs.

Meanwhile, Mark, cigarette in hand, inquired, “How are things progressing with the Smith family?"

Edwin's expression grew more serious.

He had to report to Mark, revealing softly, “We couldn't come to an agreement."

His demeanor hinted at a certain gravity.

Mark, perceptive to his son's intentions, surmised that Edwin intended to dismantle the Smith family.