Her lack of caution led to a collision with his back, resulting in a reddened nose.

"Ah..." she exclaimed in pain.

Marcus pivoted and, rather than inquiring about her pain, fixated on her red nose. After a prolonged silence, he uttered unexpectedly, "The most peculiar aspect about you isn't making me eat; it's having a date with your boss. Now wouldn't you agree?"

Melissa shielded her nose, gazing at him.

Marcus adopted a self-righteous demeanor. “Didn't you mention having 300 bucks?"

She did.

So Melissa remained silent.

She attempted to grab the bags stealthily, but Marcus promptly thrust them into her hands.

The bags weighed a ton, and her waist nearly buckled under the strain.

Marcus enjoyed the struggling expression on her face and let out a snort. “If you're aware you're at fault here, strive for better behavior."

With that, he stepped into the elevator, an air of reserve about him.

As Melissa followed him, she pondered what exactly he meant.

She grasped the situation as soon as they reached the apartment though.

Remaining stationary, Marcus poured himself a glass of water, downing it swiftly. Extracting two carrots from the shopping bag, he declared, “These are for your consumption."

Carrots... the very item least favored by Melissa.

She hesitated to eat and mumbled, "Me finishing these now means no carrots for the mutton stew."

Marcus anticipated her reluctance.

After a brief contemplation, he cleared his throat and proposed, "You can indulge in one. Save the other for the mutton stew."

To keep her well-paid job, Melissa rinsed the carrot and prepared to take a bite.

Generously, Marcus instructed, "Take a seat and enjoy."