Having spent two days in the hospital since Matthew fell ll, Melissa was exhausted and really wasn't up for an argument. Finally, she replied with a hint of resignation, “Fine. If you insist on staying, then I'll come back ‘tomorrow morning to take over.” It seemed like the only reasonable option to Melissa at that moment.

Marcus continued to gaze at her intensely, yet remained silent.

Melissa looked down, ready to gather her belongings, when suddenly Marcus caught her wrist... In an instant, she was in Marcus’ embrace.

Through his coat, she could distinctly feel the rhythm of Marcus’ heartbeat.

Melissa was taken by surprise, completely thrown off balance.

She hadn't anticipated Marcus cornering her like this. After a brief moment of shock, she tried to pull away, but Marcus gripped her hand firmly, showing no signs of letting go.

Their faces were inches apart, his breath warm against her ear, causing her to feel increasingly uncomfortable.

“It's just a reflex. Don't read too much into it, Miss Brown.” Melissa clenched her teeth, replying sharply, “I'm not thinking anything! Let go of me, right now.” Yet, Marcus didn't release her. He drew her even closer... Despite their son sleeping on the bed nearby, Marcus seemed utterly indifferent. Now he only had eyes for Melissa.

The bright light made Melissa's cheeks turn a deep shade of red.

Her voice shook with anger as she demanded, “What are you trying to do, Marcus?” Being under Marcus’ control made Melissa lose her usual confidence.

Her words sounded more like a plea than a question.

Marcus, with one arm wrapped around her waist, tenderly caressed her face with his other hand, overwhelming Melissa completely.

Feeling embarrassed, Melissa turned away. She wanted to argue with Marcus but felt too self-conscious to do so. After a tense moment, Marcus leaned in and ki*sed her passionately, leaving her breathless.

Melissa tried to resist, but Marcus was much stronger.

He gently held her chin, making her face him as he continued to ki*s her repeatedly.

Then, Marcus reached under her dress, causing Melissa to cry.

Suddenly, the moment lost all its romance.

Melissa hung her head, crying, clearly not enjoying his advances.

After a pause, Marcus looked at her and mumbled, “Sorry about that.

Fm drunk”

His apology seemed weak, and he didn't offer any further explanation.

Melissa got up quietly, her hands trembling as she straightened her clothes. Marcus gently touched her waist and suggested, “Why don't you sleep on the bed with Matthew? I won't touch you again, I promise.” Melissa couldn't help but think he was such a jerk.

But pushing him away now would only cause more drama.

Without a word, Melissa went to bed fully clothed. Once the lights were off, the room fell silent, filled only with the Lingering scent of Marcus.

The night stretched on endlessly.

It marked Marcus and Melissa's first time sharing a room since their breakup.

Tension permeated the room.

Melissa lay on her side, hugging Matthew tightly. It was very quiet at night, and she could almost hear the gentle sound of snowflakes drifting outside. Time slipped away unnoticed as she slowly drifted into slumber.

Marcus was less than two meters away, lying quietly as well From the corner of his eye, Marcus observed Melissa sleeping beside Matthew, who occupied most of the bed. Her slender form lay partially exposed, her back bare beneath the quilt. Marcus noted her fragility, realizing he could encircle her waist with a single hand.

Marcus was just an ordinary man.

Just moments ago, he had ki*sed and touched Melissa, and those memories flashed through his mind like scenes from a movie.

Uncomfortably, he turned over, attempting to conceal his desire.

The narrow sofa made it difficult for him to sleep well.

Later, he checked on Matthew and discovered that Melissa was also awake.

However, they exchanged glances without uttering a word.

Matthew awoke early the next morning.

The little boy felt considerably better. Quietly, he slipped out of bed and

made his way to the sofa, plopping down on his father’s stomach.

Marcus groaned, his eyes fluttering open.

“Daddy!” Matthew called out affectionately and nuzzled his head against Marcus’ neck, clearly expressing his joy.

Despite the warmth in the ward, Matthew was clad only in a thin hospital gown. Marcus reached out, grasping Matthew's arm, and enveloped him in his embrace. Together, they shared the warmth of a woolen overcoat.

Matthew complained, “Your coat smells like wine.” Marcus rested one hand behind his head, gently patting his son's back with the other. Matthews small frame radiated warmth and softness, exuding undeniable adorableness.

He said softly, “Daddy had to meet clients, and we drank wine while talking” Resting against him, Matthew pondered for a moment before asking, “Will there ever be a beautiful lady sitting on your lap like I see on TV?" Marcus frowned, retorting, “What kind of TV shows have you been watching?” Coincidentally, Melissa woke up just then, overhearing their ‘conversation.

Matthew was pleased by the response, yet soon after, he pouted. “I forgot you have a girlfriend.” Marcus fell silent.

Matthew buried his face against his father's neck, murmuring softly, “Mom said I don't have to call your girlfriend ‘mom’! So when Mom finds a boyfriend, I won't have to call him ‘dad either.” He displayed remarkable consideration and open-mindedness.

said Mom has to get smarter and she can't live as if she were a widow. Dad, what does that mean?” Melissa couldn't bear

fixed her with a penetrating gaze before scoffing, “If you're feeling lonely and need some ‘comfort; I'm available

help, Dad?” Matthew snuggled against

answer that question? Fortunately, the

reluctant to leave. As the nurse

to freshen up,

and quietly closed

in the mirror, she whispered, “What are you

you planning to find a boyfriend?” At

that have

gazed at her

on the tap and

he pinned her against

previous night, he grasped her chin, compelling her into a deep kis

and the nurses just outside, she dared not

to no avail; she couldn't break

wanted, he suddenly released her. Stepping back, he began to adjust his shirt, casting a

against the wall,

but you might have to contain your desires for now.” ‘s Angrily, she retorted, “It doesn't concern you” “Stop denying it. I know

seething with anger, splashing cold water on her face

and Sylvia had arrived, bearing clean clothes for Marcus along with a hearty breakfast and

in Czanch. Otherwise, they would have come to visit Matthew in person.” Melissa paid no mind

had a fever. Kids got sick and there

a cold and had a fever. Kids got sick and there was no need

she couldn't help but express her concern. “The Finch family is quite distressed. Violette has visited the Fowler family two or three times already this past week.” With a faint smile, Melissa replied, “Thanks for the update. But Marcus will tie the knot sooner or later. We don't see eye to eye on many things.” Sylvia affectionately patted her head and remarked, “So, you were just smitten by his appearance back then?” Melissa didn't refute the fact that she didn't really think things through when she

was unlikely, prompting

deeply thankful to

note to repay

from the bathroom, looking sharp and mature

Matthew gazed at

him up, but Melissa gently intervened, saying, “Your dad has

voice softened, especially when she mentioned “dad,”

Marcus embraced his

he was about to depart, the ward door swung open, admitting

they entered, they noticed a group of people

he was also incredibly handsome. Shawn had looked up to Marcus

always seen as his own sister. That made Shawn hated Marcus

time for his son! It took you

abandoned Melissa, you should care for your son. Poor little Matthew. If your dad doesn't care about you, your Uncle Shawn and Aunt Janet can

and family alone. Stress and fatigue can age a woman quickly. She might struggle to find a decent

don't take his words to heart, Mr. Fowler,” Julie interjected

Marcus adjusted his cufflinks.

at Melissa, smiling. “No worries! I understand. But if Melissa decides she wants to find a boyfriend and can't manage Matthew, Ill take care of him." With that, he

he really believe no man desires Melissa? Men would fight for a woman like her.” “Be quiet. You're always causing problems for

smiled and interacted with Matthew. “Matthew, don't you agree? Your mommy is both beautiful and

it eased

had intended to go to the company that day but had to postpone it until tomorrow. She spent the morning reviewing documents and was occupied with

the afternoon, some good

had taken an interest in their project and

to arrange a

it was scheduled for an auction in

the most

to give Alan. However, beyond the gift, the most crucial aspect was establishing

testing her

in a lighter mood. When she glanced over, she spotted Matthew standing next to the suitcase,

to pick me up?” She crouched down to his

not be able to come today.” He pouted, saying, “But you have to work too. Yet you always stay with me.” Smiling, she responded, “Aren't you glad I'm here with you? How about this? When I'm busy,

recent unpleasantness, exploring the interior curiously. Shawn winked at him. “My car is pretty cool, huh? While it's not as fancy as a limo, it can fit seven people. Perfect for

her dignity for any man, right? Mom, don't fret. If he truly cares about Melissa, he can handle criticism. And what I said is true” Melissa muttered, “'m done

picked up the ringing

of the ward, Marcus stood, one hand resting on his hip while the other gripped the phone. “Matthew has been discharged from the hospital. Why didn't you clue me in?” “I figured you'd be swamped with work” “Melissa, am I just a spare part of your life? If Matthew didn't know about me, would you prefer I stay away from your life for good?” A pang

He always acted like he was better than her, looking down on her. He

navigating their relationship was

her silence

silence momentarily before requesting to talk to Matthew. Melissa passed the phone to her son. “It’s your

headache, and it's getting worse. I need to take medicine when my

inquired gently, “Who put that in your head?” “I came up

dads are nice to their wives, but you're always so mean to mom. It makes me sad” With

felt a headache

promise I'l be good to your mother from now on, okay?” “Really? You're not just saying that, are you?” “No! Il stick to my promise.” Saying this, Marcus felt a twinge of sadness, a sensation

with Matthew, he never turned down the boy's requests.

Afew years ago...

the stairs and headed to the car. “Take me to see the

driver promptly ignited

through the door when Marcus

weak in front of Marcus.

should be more restrained around men.” “I know”

unexpectedly. Despite Melissa's surprise, she chose to maintain

carved out space for Marcus and Matthew, then

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

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