Inside the cloakroom, Cecilia’s cheeks remained a vivid shade of red.
When Mark emerged, he found Edwin staring intently at him. With a composed demeanor, Mark patted his son’s head and said, “I’ll treat you to seafood later.”
Overjoyed, Edwin hoisted a bag and announced, “I’ve got my sister’s feeding bottle and snacks.”
Olivia, trailing her brother, enveloped him in a hug from behind.
With nary a hint of irritation, Edwin pulled her in front and advised, “Be good, now.”
Olivia clung to his arm, orbiting him as they walked.
Freshly composed, Cecilia emerged. Mark scooped up Olivia and took Edwin’s hand.
Cecilia grabbed the car keys, and the family of four exited the hotel room, only to find an unanticipated guest in the lobby.
It was Elaine.
Slim and dressed in a sultry black slip dress, Elaine looked alluring but Cecilia just couldn’t help wondering if she was feeling cold.
Angela’s Library
As soon as she spotted Mark, Elaine approached.
“Cecilia, I never got the chance to apologize for the misunderstanding last time. How about dinner on me tonight?”
Elaine extended a hand to touch Olivia and cooed, “How adorable!”
Before either adult could respond, Edwin interjected sharply, “Don’t touch my sister.”
Cecilia was stunned.
Her son had always exuded a gentle disposition.
Visibly startled, Elaine found Edwin’s fierce gaze unsettling.
You little brat…
Elaine was convinced that once she won Mark over, these children would be irrelevant.
And these kids might have a stepfather soon.
Mark interjected, “Miss Shaw, we’re in the midst of a family outing.
We prefer not to be interrupted.”
Elaine’s expression darkened.
Unfazed by Elaine’s presence, Mark ushered the children into the car and opened the passenger seat door for Cecilia, assisting her as she settled in.