Yet, in this moment, she couldn't resist the fluttering in her heart.

Perhaps the prolonged challenges had taken their toll on her, making her yearn for warmth when someone cared.

Marcus kissed her once more.

He carried her to the small bed, and Melissa felt a sense of unease.

Pressing against his shoulder, her voice quivered. "Marcus!"

It was the first time she addressed him in such a way, a rebellious act that felt fitting in the current circumstances.

With one hand gently cradling her head, Marcus bent his knees, leaning against the bed's edge. While kissing her, he reassured, “Don't be afraid. I won't do anything."

Despite his intentions being Limited to comforting gestures, Melissa was still bleeding. Yet, all Marcus wanted was to share a tender moment through a kiss.

However, Melissa continued to tremble visibly, a clear sign that she had never been intimate with any man before.

Similarly, Marcus had maintained his chastity, refraining from engaging in physical relationships to satisfy his needs.

While he might have been considered inexperienced, exposure to adult content had equipped him with the knowledge of making women feel at ease. Although their interaction was limited to kisses and touches, it was sufficient to make her gradually melt in his arms.

Soon, she took the initiative, encircling her arms around his neck.

Marcus, feeling aroused, guided her hand, heightening the intimate atmosphere in the confined space, causing both to blush and their hearts to race.

The planned dinner was postponed by an hour.

Eventually, in the small kitchen, they reheated the food before partaking in the meal.

Throughout the dinner, silence prevailed, with Melissa keeping her head down.

Her face burned with embarrassment.

She couldn't shake the feeling that, regardless of appearance or status, the intimacy shared today seemed like her taking advantage of him.

The shame lingered.

After dinner, Marcus observed her lowered head and smiled, teasing, “Why are you still so shy around me?"