Displaying kindness, he even poured her a glass of water.

Melissa wasn't naive. Extended exposure to him had unveiled some of his peculiar habits.

To Marcus, she was nothing more than an exhibition piece.

Having finished the carrot, tears welled up in her eyes, a tinge of embarrassment lingering.

Yet she had to maintain composure, pretending all was well. In a hushed tone, she informed Marcus she had finished. His guilty pleasure satiated, he raised his hand, checking his watch. "I need a nap. Wake me when dinner's ready."