Marcus, absorbed in his papers, he nonchalantly invited her in. "Come in."

Upon Melissa's entry, Marcus remained engrossed in his documents, issuing a casual instruction without looking up. “The sofa's a bit cluttered. Tidy it up, please."

Melissa nodded in acknowledgment and began her task.

The leather sofa littered with magazines and Marcus' coat. A small box tumbled out as Melissa unfurled the coat.

As she reached to retrieve it, Marcus' voice stopped her.

"That's a sample from the partner. You should keep it."

Melissa, taken aback, hesitated, her instinct urging her to decline.

But Marcus insisted, taking the jewelry box from her and revealing its contents. It was a diamond bracelet of understated yet exquisite beauty. Each stone shimmered elegance despite their modest size.

Melissa, no expert in jewels, understood its significant worth and hesitated to accept such a lavish gift.

Marcus insisted, placing the box in her hands. “Accept it as a token of appreciation."

Melissa lowered her head. In a subdued tone, she asked, "Mr. Fowler, may I sell it?"

Marcus, with a dismissive snort, clarified, “It's not yet on the market. Selling it isn't an option."

Melissa ceased her questioning, expressing her gratitude softly before resuming her task.

As she leaned over the sofa, a glimpse of her delicate neck and fine hairs revealed her youthful vulnerability.

To Marcus, she resembled an innocent rabbit.

He watched her silently, a quiet observer. Their proximity escalated when Melissa straightened, inadvertently backing into Marcus’ arms.

He retreated only a step, their bodies almost merging.

The contact of her silk stockings against his linen trousers sent a jolt of panic through him, compelling him to steady her by the waist.

Her slim, supple form felt unexpectedly right in his grasp.

Marcus stood at a towering height of at least six feet, whereas Melissa was petite, measuring just 5.2 feet in stature.