In the dimmed room, Laura's confidence grew; she was his wife now, free to express her love for him.

But then, Edwin turned the lights back on, and Laura shyly sought refuge in his embrace, chiding him playfully for not keeping the lights off as promised.

Edwin, his voice hoarse and filled with emotion, whispered to Laura, "I want to see you."

Laura, though shy, was eager to show her love for him.

She wrapped her arms around his neck, gently kissing him, her actions guided by a mix of timidity and affection. Edwin tenderly held her, their embrace growing closer as they shared intimate moments.

The night wore on, and by the time they paused, it was already 3 a.m.

Edwin, still longing for more, finally stopped when Laura, exhausted, begged for mercy.

"Shall I help you with a bath?" Edwin asked, his voice still rough.

Laura, too fatigued for more, declined and insisted on staying in his arms, asking him to talk to her.

Edwin chuckled softly, indulging her request. He held his new wife close, sharing tales from his time abroad. Amid their conversation, Laura couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy, inquiring if he had any girlfriends overseas.

Edwin, teasing her gently, pinched her nose.

"Don't you already know the answer to that?" he asked playfully.

Laura's cheeks flushed with embarrassment.

They didn't delve further into the topic. Nestled in Edwin's arms, feeling his heartbeat, Laura felt an overwhelming sense of sweetness and security. She softly touched her wedding ring, whispering, "I am Mrs. Evans now."

Edwin's teasing continued.

"Not just a husband, but perhaps a future father too," he joked.

Laura, not quite ready for such jokes, hugged him closer, her soft form moving restlessly in his embrace. Edwin responded with soothing caresses, and soon Laura drifted off to sleep.

But Edwin lay awake, his heart filled with a mix of tumultuous emotions and peaceful contentment.

He kissed the sleeping girl in his arms, stepped out to the balcony for a cigarette to reflect on his thoughts, and then returned to the bedroom, holding Laura close as he finally fell asleep.

Edwin rose early and busied himself in the kitchen, adeptly preparing not just breakfast but also lunch for Laura.