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.

Matthew sighed. “There will be. She's so beautiful. Julie said Mom has to get smarter and she can't

murmured, “Julie was talking nonsense.” Marcus fixed her with a penetrating gaze before scoffing, “If you're feeling lonely and need

snuggled against

Marcus really answer that question? Fortunately, the nurse arrived

As the nurse approached

up,

up, Marcus entered and quietly closed the door behind

whispered, “What are you doing?” Marcus and she locked eyes through

planning to find a boyfriend?” At the thought of their breakup and Violette, Melissa

does that have to do with you?” She retorted without

at her for

turning on the tap

her against the

looming over her. Echoes of the previous night, he grasped her chin, compelling her into a deep kis

the nurses just outside, she dared not

him, but to no

she thought he was about to get what he wanted, he suddenly released her. Stepping back, he began

against the

pounded with rage as she cursed, “You bastard!” Marcus, with a lazy and arrogant demeanor, finally spoke in a hoarse voice after a Lingering glance. “Sorry, but you might have to contain your desires for now.” ‘s Angrily, she retorted, “It doesn't concern you” “Stop denying it. I know

water on her face for an extended period of

clean clothes for Marcus along with a hearty breakfast

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

fever. Kids got sick and there was no need to

Kids got sick and

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,

lack of response, Sylvia inferred that a reconciliation between Melissa and Marcus was unlikely, prompting her to switch topics. “I've heard you've been excelling in your

felt deeply thankful to Sylvia

a mental note to repay Sylvia's kindness

and Sylvia conversed, Marcus emerged from the bathroom, looking sharp and mature as he prepared for a business

at him

gently intervened, saying, “Your dad

voice softened, especially when she mentioned “dad,”

Marcus embraced his

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

soon as they entered, they noticed a group

was also incredibly

seen as his own sister. That made Shawn hated Marcus

spotted Marcus. “Oh, look who finally has time for his son! It

If your dad doesn't care about you, your Uncle Shawn

alone. Stress and fatigue can age a woman quickly. She might struggle to find a decent man in the future.” He continued, incensed, until

son lacks manners. Please don't take his words to heart, Mr. Fowler,” Julie interjected with a

Marcus adjusted his cufflinks.

find a boyfriend and can't manage Matthew, Ill take care of him." With that,

the door closed, Shawn waved his fist, exclaiming, “What's he implying? Does he really believe no man desires Melissa? Men would

both beautiful and capable, isn't she?” Matthew chuckled, eliciting

Matthew, it eased

day but had to postpone it until tomorrow. She spent the morning reviewing documents

the afternoon, some good

their project and was considering

wanted to arrange a meeting with

scheduling a meeting with him for Melissa. However, it was scheduled for an auction in two days rather than a private meeting.

the most

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

testing her

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

come to pick me up?” She crouched down

might 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

forgotten the recent unpleasantness, exploring the interior curiously. Shawn winked at him. “My car is pretty cool, huh?

She shouldn't sacrifice 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 with him.” Matthew said sadly, “My dad has a girlfriend.” Shawn

picked up 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 shot

to talk to Marcus. He always acted like he was better than her, looking down on her. He was the one who flirted with her but also made fun

their relationship was a

to him, her silence

to talk to Matthew. Melissa passed the phone to her son. “It’s your dad.” Matthew's mood

already have a headache, and it's getting worse. I need to take medicine when my head hurts. And the medicine tastes really bad.” Marcus

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

TV, other dads are nice to their wives, but you're always so mean to mom. It makes

felt a headache

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,

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

Afew years ago...

ending the call, Marcus descended the stairs and headed

driver promptly ignited the

barely stepped through the door when Marcus

grumbled, “Mom, you're so weak in front of Marcus. You can't stand up

be more restrained around

Melissa's surprise, she chose to maintain harmony

carved out space for Marcus and Matthew, then retreated to the kitchen to prepare

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

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