Despite Marcus not taking her, a sense of embarrassment washed over her.

It made her more embarrassed.

She experienced pleasure that he gave her, yet she hesitated to meet his gaze. Turning her face away, her red nose pressed against the pillow as she took a soft breath.

“Did you ever love me?"

Marcus persistently caressed her. As arousal heightened, he whispered in her ear, repeatedly asking, his breath uneven. If she didn't respond, he would escalate, though he refrained from truly engaging with her.

In the end, tears streamed down Melissa's face.

"No! Never!"

Could she admit to it? The world knew her as a deceiver. She had a boyfriend, yet she inexplicably found herself drawn to Marcus.

She questioned herself, wondering if she only cooked and did laundry for Marcus in exchange for financial support.

Only Melissa was aware of the genuine sentiment behind her actions.

Her affection for Marcus was profound, yet she couldn't bring herself to confess.

Now, when he inquired about whether she had ever loved him, she grappled with the decision to tell the truth. Clutching the valuable bracelet he had given her, she chose to leave instead. If she now admitted affection for him, she worried about how she would confront his family and friends.

Amidst her uncertainties, it became apparent that her lack of knowledge extended even to distinguishing between champagne and wine.

Incompatible worlds separated them. Melissa never envisioned a lasting connection with Marcus merely based on his fleeting affection.

Tastes could shift.

Once fond of Ryan, her affections also waned.

Yes, she had strayed from faithfulness.

Melissa found herself drawn to Marcus, someone she knew she shouldn't have developed feelings for.

Beneath him, she sobbed uncontrollably. “I never loved you, Marcus.

If your resentment needs an outlet, I'll compensate with my body.