Not only was Cecilia taken aback but Mark also seemed slightly surprised.


    Despite Rena’s presence, he called out, “Cecilia!”


    Her lips quivered and she was reluctant to respond to him.


    Rena nced between Mark and Cecilia, sensing that they hadn’t interacted much, but she couldn’t ignore the familiarity with which her uncle addressed Cecilia just now.


    Peter, who had arrived just in the nick of time, acted as the catalyst to thaw the frozen atmosphere.


    Upon witnessing the scene, he, too, was taken aback.


    However, being an experienced confidant who had apanied Mark for many years, he knew how to ease tensions. He greeted Rena first, “Miss Rena, you’re here too! Mr. Evans has been talking about youtely and wishes to see you!”


    Rena could only y along and greet Mark in response.


    Vera, who shared the same boat with Rena, also sensed that something was amiss. She interjected, “What a coincidence!”


    Flora, donning a smile, chimed in, “Indeed, what a coincidence that you are Mr. Evans’ juniors. How about I treat you to dinner at that nice restaurant nearby? Their food is exquisite!”


    As she spoke, she unfurled a delicate folding fan, a sweet fragrance emanating in the air.


    Involuntarily, Cecilia declined the invitation. “Thank you, but I have a headache. I’m afraid I can’t join you.”


    An intricate tension lingered in the air.Content rights by N?velDr//ama.Org.


    Peter tried to ease the situation, saying, “A headache? I’ll get you some medicine then, Miss


    Fowler.”


    Flora’s attention was piqued by his attentiveness, leading her to speak up in a coquettish tone. “Peter, I often have headaches. I don’t recall you caring for me this much.”


    Though directed at Peter, her words carried an undertone of discontent, revealing her innerint that Mark didn’t show enough concern for her.


    Mark responded with a smile, “Don’t you have enough people around you who can buy you medicine?”


    Gently, Flora linked her arm with his and softly uttered, “As long as you are by my side, I will be fine…”


    Cecilia’splexion turned pallid.


    Peter continued to handle the situation until, finally, they settled into a private room at the restaurant.


    Flora deeply cared for Rena, as she aspired to be a part of the Evans family.