Chapter 81 Pleading in the Shadows

Yvonne's tears hadn't completely stopped. Sitting opposite Marcus, her red nose and tear-streaked cheeks revealed her current vulnerability. Tears and mucus had unintentionally smeared Marcus's shirt. She awkwardly wiped her eyes, her voice choked with emotion as she apologized, "Sorry, I couldn't control my emotions." Marcus didn't respond verbally, instead quietly lowering his head, his gaze soft as he looked at her. In his mind, Yvonne was always so composed and elegant, with a touch of aloofness. He had never seen her so upset, which made him feel both surprised and protective. Yvonne's cheeks were flushed, her eyes slightly swollen, resembling a frightened little rabbit, evoking a strong desire to protect her. Despite this, Marcus felt a gentle happiness, perhaps because Yvonne only showed her true, vulnerable self in front of him. "Hungry?" Marcus tried to break the heavy atmosphere, offering her his tie to wipe her tears. Yvonne didn't take the tie. Instead, she laughed t