Lauraâs background was less than prestigious, which might make others look at her unfavorably.
However, Edwinâs mother, Cecilia, always treated Laura with nothing but kindness.
She offered Laura the same opportunities and comforts that Olivia enjoyed.
Over the years, this place had truly become Lauraâs home.
Feeling Lauraâs intense gaze, Cecilia found it too much to bear.
She stood up and cleared her throat, saying, âItâs getting late.
You should head to bed soon.
â
Laura nodded in agreement.
She waited for Cecilia to leave before she called someone to tidy up the area.
Then, Laura returned to her own room.
By the time she got back, Edwin had already showered and changed into his PJs.
He was reclining against the headboard with a book, clearly waiting for her.
Laura blushed.
He was usually too caught up to make time for s@x, but when the holidays rolled around, she knew sheâd never feel neglected.
He would be off work for about 20 days for his annual vacation.
Heâd make love to her at least 50 times in these 20 days.
Sometimes she marveled at his boundless energy in his 30s.
Blushing slightly, she took a shower and then sat at her dresser to brush her long hair.
Edwin looked up and inquired, âYou and Mom were talking for quite some time downstairs.
What did you discuss?â
Laura caught his reflection in the mirror.
After a moment, she replied, âSheâs arranging a blind date for Olivia.
There are a few decent candidates.
They look decent and have good jobs, but it seems like Mom isnât really impressed by any of them.
â
Edwin momentarily hid behind his book.
After a pause, he said, âIâll talk to Mom tomorrow.
Letâs hold off for now.
If Olivia really moves back to Czanch from Duefron, we can start arranging the blind date then.
â
Laura responded, âOkay.
â She appeared calm and agreeable.
Seeing her in such a compliant state, Edwin felt a playful urge, but they were at his parentsâ place.
He treated Laura with tenderness instead that evening.
Outside, fireworks illuminated the sky.
Their expansive and elegantly appointed bedroom felt as cozy as spring.
In another bedroom facing east, Olivia stood silently, watching the fireworks outside, holding an amulet in her hand.
In her youth, she had once been pregnant.
She didnât realize it until long after her breakup with Raphael, and by the time she knew, the baby was already lost.
The loss wasnât physically painful.
Just a small surgery and she didnât even need to stay in the hospital for the night.
The child had been hers and Raphaelâs.
The doctor had informed her that her physical condition was delicate, and following the miscarriage, it might be difficult for her to conceive again.
So, when Olivia encountered Raphael again, she felt nothing.
Raphael was in his prime.
Olivia could picture how much the Jones family valued lineage, especially after a tragic incident had befallen them.
Sometimes, love involved more than just affection.