The pain in her heart still lingered as she recollected the past.

When Cecilia emerged, Rena sat gracefully upon the sofa in the living room, two cups of fragrant tea adorning the table before her.

Observing the tears welling up in Cecilia's eyes, Rena gently smiled and asked, “Have you concluded your conversation? Come, have some tea."

Cecilia let out a sob and cried out, "Rena."

She settled beside Rena, her countenance bearing the weight of despair.

Cecilia had harbored an ardent love for Mark all along, but he had merely toyed with her emotions.

The most pitiable aspect was that she still harbored affection for this man, and she could not forgive herself or him exactly because of that love.

Rena allowed Cecilia to lean against her shoulder.

An awkward atmosphere permeated the air as Mark emerged.

There were certain matters he could not explain to Cecilia, let alone to Rena... In any case, he had failed Cecilia.

Mark whispered, "Take good care of her. I will return to Czanch first."

He prepared to depart...

Rena gently inquired, “Uncle, the last time I asked if you had considered starting a family. Now... I wish to pose the question once more.”

Mark halted in his tracks.

In truth, he had pondered the prospect of starting a family.

During the six months he had spent with Cecilia, he had entertained the idea, for it had been a blissful period in his life.

But what did it matter now?

He could not voice those thoughts.

Softly, Mark responded, "No."

Rena nodded, her expression understanding.

"I understand. By the way... Grandma is here. She is en route to the Fowlers’ residence."

Mark turned around.