Patting Laura's head affectionately, he murmured, “You keep it. I'll install a big safe in our house, so you can store everything I give you each year. When we're old, you can pass them on to our children and their significant others."

The notion was endearingly sweet.

Laura protested, "I don't want to have that many children!"

However, Edwin, with a desire for children, suggested softly, “How about two?"

Having a sister himself, he understood the warmth of sibling relationships.

Laura, in agreement, hummed softly through her nose.

Meanwhile, Mark, witnessing their affectionate exchange, found it overwhelmingly sweet. His son had truly surpassed him.

The family gathered for a lively dinner, savoring the warmth and unity that enveloped them.

Later, Mark insisted they have some time alone and encouraged Edwin and Laura to enjoy each other's company.

Laura hesitated, feeling a twinge of guilt about leaving so soon, but Edwin, grabbing his coat, wrapped an arm around her shoulder and declared, "Then Mom, Dad, we'll be going! We'll be back for dinner this weekend!"

Mark grumbled, “If you're coming back, come early and cook for me!"

Edwin chuckled in response.

As they made their exit Edwin hugged Cecilia once again.

"Mom, we'll see you this weekend!

Observing her son open the car door for his wife and escort her into the vehicle, Cecilia felt a wave of nostalgia.

“The kids have really grown up!" she remarked.

Mark, sensing her sentimentality, wrapped an arm around her, teasingly asking, “What, secretly calling me old again?"

Cecilia rested against Mark's shoulder, reflecting on how she could never truly see him as old.

Even at this stage of life, Mark retained his charm, and there were undoubtedly women who would find him desirable. He had taken good care of himself, ensuring Cecilia didn't miss out on any pleasures a woman could desire.

Their marriage, spanning over the years, had been a genuinely happy one.