Chapter 2021 No one had the audacity to protest Mark's exit, though they exchanged light banter.

But then, a defiant voice chimed in, “Mr. Evans, if you're Leaving early, shouldn't you at least down three drinks as penalty?” A hush settled over the room.

ALL eyes fixed on Elaine, whose demeanor oozed confidence.

She obviously did it out of her jealousy of Cecilia. The evening had been going smoothly until Cecilia's arrival, which meant Elaine missed out on quality time with Mark.

The tension was palpable.

Cecilia gently moved Mark aside and stepped forward.

Elaine's face hinted at anxiety, but she stood her ground, believing she held the upper hand over Cecilia.

After all, Elaine received professional training as an actress, while Cecilia started as a nobdy.

Besides, being a decade younger than Cecilia, Elaine was convinced of her allure, especially since she had confirmed Mark's single status.

Cecilia approached Mark's seat, gracefully lifted the goblet he used, and took a whiff.

It was just water.

She tilted her head back, consuming its contents.

The onlookers, puzzled by her actions, turned to Peter for clarity.

He seemed poised to intervene until a subtle glance from Mark halted him.

Cecilia set down the goblet and reached for a bottle of strong alcoholic drinks.

A stunning 20-carat ruby shimmered on her finger as she poured a generous amount into a glass.

Elaine remarked with a hint of mockery, “Miss Fowler, quite the direct approach. Planning to down three glasses on Mr. Evans's behalf?” Cecilia scanned the room, replying with a soft chuckle, “Who mentioned I'd be the one drinking? Mark doesn't indulge. I noticed some folks stepping in for him earlier. So, the person who took his place will drink what I pour.

Elaine's confidence wavered.

She'd been the one drinking for Mark, trying to impress.

Although Mark had seen her, he hadn't intervened.

Tension filled the room.

Chapter 2022 The man accompanying Elaine tried to mediate.

“Miss Fowler, please —" But Cecilia countered, “Wasn't this her idea?” She glanced around the room, smiling, “Or does anyone want to see me finish these three glasses?” No one dared challenge Cecilia, leaving Elaine cornered.

The man turned to Elaine, trying to keep his composure.

“Elaine, you acted without thinking. It's your turn to drink up for Mr. Evans.” Eyes teary, Elaine protested, “Why should 12” Cecilia set the glass down, asserting, “Because I am a Fowler.” Without another word, she exited, the remnants of the drink swaying in the glass.

Mark chuckled softly.

“Pardon me." “Mr. Evans.” Elaine's voice halted him.

Pausing, Mark responded coolly, “Miss Shaw, one important lesson in life is to learn one’s limits.” He departed soon after, leaving a hushed room behind.

A voice broke the silence.

“Just one drink should suffice.” But the liquor, a reminder of Cecilia's bold move, tasted especially sharp.

Elaine had made her mark in the entertainment world, and with Chandler's support, she acted with authority. This incident, however, had deeply humbled her.

Her eyes held a sorrowful tint.

That night, someone had offered to help Elaine, but pride kept her from accepting.

Cecilia hurried on.

Mark had to pick up his pace to keep up. He chuckled, grabbing the edge of her dress.

“You sure move quickly in those heels.”

Chapter 2023 But she remained unmoved, marching to her bright red sports car and hopping in.

Mark slid into the passenger seat beside her.

Clicking her seatbelt, Cecilia glanced at him.

“Don’t you have your own car, Mr. Evans?” Mark reclined casually, feigning helplessness, “Driving’s become so tiresome lately. I thought I'd let the younger generation take the wheel.” Cecilia couldn't help but retort, “Lazy much?" Mark's gaze lingered on her, the weight of their month-long separation heavy on his heart.

Her lingering frustration evident, Cecilia playfully nudged him with her foot.

“Shouldn't you be back there, playing the doting knight to Elaine? Why are you following me?” Elaine had nearly slipped Mark’s mind.

After a couple of playful nudges from Cecilia, Mark teasingly grabbed her ankle.

Cecilia's cheeks flushed.

“What do you take me for, a dancer? That hurt! Now let go of my leg" Her leg ached, almost as if she'd strained it.

Mark, sensing her genuine discomfort, quickly released and began to massage her leg.

After a moment, Mark leaned in, planting a gentle kiss, “Better now?” Cecilia responded with silence, her annoyance palpable.

Mark brushed her cheek softly.

were incredible

such a strong woman. I feel like you could guard me now.” Cecilia frowned at his

he having too much fun at her expense? Without a word, Mark unbuckled and swapped

a bit, Cecilia finally

Gripping the steering wheel, Mark calmly inquired, “Where would you like to

unfaithful, he

“It's been days since I last saw Edwin and Olivia.” “How about we

for them, it wasn't spacious enough for the kids. In contrast, Cecilia's apartment provided ample

She agreed.

confrontation with Elaine, Cecilia was mentally exhausted and

awoke, they were at the Fowler

had fetched the kids and swapped vehicles for a black Land

sensed Mark's increasing familiarity with

ease, as if her home

Edwin seated at the back, Cecilia took

we're

it was late, but she

she found Mark

of embarrassment as he lifted an

him, gently taking

me handle

an

“Feeling shy?” he teased.

She feigned indifference.

in the slightest.” But Mark grinned, reminding her

with a playful glance,

the depth of

just physical. He genuinely cherished

gravity of the moment, he

the night added to the intensity of their

reciprocated, emotions evident in the way she met his

her hair, a hint

so suddenly that day?” Cecilia blushed, her fingers fidgeting with the buttons

film to shoot; I wasn't running away.” His chuckles warmed the air

dance of push and

the nuances of their relationship, met his gaze

arms encircling his neck, their

afraid of you,”

with an intensity, their connection palpable and fervent.

them to the

scattered

Mark, known for his discipline in personal care,

felt the weight of their connection but

still seemed lost in the moment, wrapping her close

sleepy,” Cecilia murmured, her eyes

on her shoulder earned him

you want a replay of our conversation about Elaine just so I can get some rest?” He sensed her

the

he drew her into a close embrace, kissed her forehead and whispered, “Rest now.” Despite the lingering summer heat, Cecilia felt comfortable nestled against him, her steady breath signaling

Mark thought she was deep in slumber, he quietly got up, intending to check on Olivia. But Cecilia's voice, still filled with drowsiness, halted

need you here” Mark could only smile

painted the room in a silvery glow, and Mark couldn't help but marvel at the sight

a newfound depth in their relationship, a stability born

realized that a younger Cecilia might not have

while Cecilia continued her restful slumber, Mark quietly checked on Edwin, ensuring

prepared warm milk and a cookie

a joy for Mark, especially since he

and the cookie in

eyes, pausing between bites, taking a moment

delicate skin and long eyelashes emphasized her

her father, watched her with sheer admiration

her

cradling her, Mark comforted the

in her father’s embrace, Olivia drifted off to

to lay her down, she stirred, seeking the warmth

Without hesitation, Mark carried her to the master

of sibling jealousy if he knew about this special treatment his little sister was

was bathed in a soft morning glow

herself cuddling

meticulously de-thorned red rose lay with a

it was unforgettable last night” A blush

murmured with a

the bedroom door

Cecilia's awake state, he said warmly, “Rest if you need

at school.” Cecilia still clutched the

between holding onto it and letting it

perceptive as always, caught her

bit more; and maybe savor last night a bit more,”

to ignore such playful teasing? Pulling the covers

Last night was just average. Not much to remember, let alone savor. And, by the way, don't flatter yourself too much, Mr. Evans.” Mark's eyes held a

a brief moment, she headed to

gently adjusted Olivia in the bed,

voice called out, “Dad, I'll be late!” Mark leaned down, planting a soft

Cecilia emerged from the

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