“Dad, was this your doing?”
Mark sneered, a cold edge to his voice, “Do I always have to clean up after your mess? The Smith family has even reached Cecilia.”
Edwin didn’t talk back this time.
In a hushed tone, he said, “Dad, I’m sorry! Anything else, I can agree to, but marrying Vanessa is something I can’t do.”
Mark fought to rein in his emotions and inquired, “What’s your plan?
You mentioned tying the knot only after Laura does. What if she never ties the knot? Would the Evans family face a future without heirs?”
Edwin responded slowly, “There’s always Olivia, right?”
“Don’t even consider bringing your little sister into this. How old is she? Can she shoulder such a responsibility?”
Edwin appeared somewhat lost in contemplation.
Mark paused briefly before speaking again.
“Edwin, it’s not that I don’t want to agree. Consider this–if Laura is with you, will she only have to confront your mother? The Evans family and the scrutiny of the entire world are in the mix. Sooner or later, what happen in the past will come to light. You’re a man; at most, you’ll be teased with light banters. But Cathy’s past misdeeds will all be pinned on Laura. Can you protect her then?”
Edwin maintained his silence.
All of this had crossed his mind previously; otherwise, he wouldn’t have surrendered so readily upon acknowledging his feelings for Laura.
He ignited a cigarette but abstained from smoking it, allowing it to smolder.
A N G E L A ‘s L I B R A R Y
Mark rose, and Tina swiftly enveloped him in his coat.
In hushed tones, Mark stated, “This afternoon, I’m heading back to Czanch with your Mom. Peter’s celebrating his birthday on New Year’s Eve. You should return in advance!”
Edwin gave a nod of agreement.
In an instant, Mark’s anger surged once more, “Find a decent gift!
To think you carry out such shameless acts, and Peter is still in the dark!”
Edwin shot him a glance.
Mark huffed, distancing himself.
Once he left, Tina returned, and Edwin carefully directed her, “Prepare a birthday gift for an elder of mine. No budget limit; just make it prestigious and grand.”
Tina was well aware of what to do.
Edwin sat in contemplation for quite a while.