A moment later, she blurted out, slightly annoyed, âWhat do you say inviting Zoey over to live with us?â
Mark had already walked toward the bathroom, and his response drifted from within.
âZoeyâs not fond of going out.
Sheâs content with her life in Czanch!
Yet, she adores you and Edwin.
Maybe she will agree to come over if you invite her with enough enthusiasm.
â
Cecilia kept quiet.
Upon exiting the bathroom, Mark noticed Cecilia lost in thought.
He settled across from her, inquiring, âWhatâs on your mind? Did I upset you?â
Observing his presence, Cecilia stared at him.
She wanted to keep Zoey company.
Mark stroked her hair tenderly and whispered, âWhatâs going through your head? How could I leave her alone? Sheâll stay there alone for now.
We will take Edwin back to Czanch in a few years.
By that time, youâre not allowed to get teary with homesickness.
â
He spoke with a soft and caring tone.
Cecilia appreciated the way Mark comforted her.
She murmured, âI wonât if you treat me well.
â
Mark drew her close.
Tonight, he was overflowing with passion.
Despite knowing he might not last, he couldnât hold back his desire, ki*sing her until her body nearly melted from his affection.
This intense lovemaking swept them off their feet.
It wasnât until midnight that Mark stirred from his slumber.
His phone buzzed, and it was a call from Laura.
In the darkness, he gazed at the screen quietly for a few seconds before finally hitting the mute button.
The light flickered on and off.
Sleep eluded him, so he tenderly embraced Cecilia, nuzzling his face against her graceful neck.
Ceciliaâs eyes fluttered open.
She sensed Markâs melancholy.
She knew he liked Laura dearly.
She mused that if Laura hadnât been Cathyâs daughter, they might have welcomed Laura with open arms, raising her up as Rena did with Leonel.
But Laura was Cathyâs daughter.
She could not bring herself to embrace Laura as her own.