Laughter and joy filled the air, especially with the children running around, their voices adding a lively melody to the night.


    Despite the smile Cecilia wore, an underlying sense of loneliness clung to her, a fact that didn’t escape Rena’s notice. It stirred a pang of sadness within her.


    Feeling Rena’s turmoil, Waylen tenderly ced his arm around her shoulders andforted her silently.


    Korbyn gathered the group of children and distributed gifts.


    It was evident that Leonel had received the most presents.


    Korbyn affectionately tousled Leonel’s hair and praised him.


    “You performed exceptionally well. You set a great example for your younger siblings.”


    Alexis, her lower lip protruding in a yful pout, chimed in, “I did a good job too! I helped change Marcus’ diapers.”


    Marcus nodded vigorously, his eyes gleaming with excitement.


    Korbyn handed Alexis another gift.


    “I was nning to give it to you in secret.”


    Alexis took it happily.


    Meanwhile, Edwin sat by the door, gazing quietly out of the window, lost in his thoughts.


    It was snowing on New Year’s Eve.


    In the midst of the falling snowkes, Edwin waited patiently for someone special.


    His anticipation was for Mark.


    Edwin longed for Mark to arrive on New Year’s Eve, lift him in his arms, kiss him, and affectionately call him a “Silly boy” before presenting him with a gift.


    Yet this year, Edwin’s eager eyes searched in vain for a long time, but he still couldn’t catch sight of Mark.


    Some whispered that Mark had met his demise.


    While others imed he had heartlessly abandoned Edwin, his mother, and his sister.


    Edwin’s eyshes were dusted with snow.


    He sat still.From N?velDrama.Org.


    His body was rigid, but in his heart, Mark’s warm presence lingered.


    He could almost feel Mark beside him, sitting next to the firece with him, theirughter filling the room as they yed with blocks and shared tales.