Lina, not missing a beat, playfully twisted his ear.
“And who’s to say you haven’t been showering affection on some eighteen-year-olds during your outings with Mark all those years back?
You had your fun and kept it a secret, yet here I am, still the dutiful wife at home.”
Peter quickly sought her forgiveness, his pleas light-hearted.
Even Laura, who had been feeling down, couldn’t help but chuckle softly at their exchange. She glanced up at Edwin and caught him looking at her, his eyes shining with an indescribable warmth and allure.
After Peter and Lina had retired for the night, Edwin took a shower in Laura’s room, settling into the house as if he were already part of the family. After shower, he found his energy renewed, and they shared a moment of intimate closeness once again.
Laura lay there for a while, lost in the aftermath of their intimacy.
Angela’s Library
Edwin, still close to her, kissed her nose gently.
“Did you enjoy that?” he asked softly.
She slowly came back to reality, a shy smile on her face.
The worries that had been momentarily forgotten during their passion returned. She wrapped her arms around his neck, murmuring her assent in a daze.
Edwin continued to kiss her tenderly, his touches gentle and loving.
They didn’t go further, just basked in the closeness and warmth of each other’s embrace.
Finally, as they lay there exhausted, Edwin kissed her hair, his voice low and hoarse.
“Stay home these next few days, and don’t go out.”
He was protective, not wanting her to be hurt by the swirling rumors.
Laura was delicate and timid, and he couldn’t bear the thought of her facing any harsh words.
Laura gently shook her head, nestling against Edwin’s shoulder.
“Edwin, I can’t just stay indoors forever. If I’m to be with you, it’s not right for me to comfortably hide behind you while you face the world on my behalf. That wouldn’t be fair to our relationship.
I have my own job, my own life to live. Rumors and gossip—they can’t hurt me. I need to face them, just as I stand by you,” she murmured with resolve.
Edwin found it hard to accept, wanting to protect her, but he knew she was right. She couldn’t live her life in hiding.
He reluctantly agreed, holding her close.
In a soft voice, he asked, “Laura, do you regret being with me?”
She shook her head firmly.