I'll repay the 800 thousand dollars."

Marcus withdrew his touch.

His gaze descended upon her form.

Eventually, in a rough tone, he inquired, “Do you believe your body can make amends for my losses?"

Melissa's face nearly disappeared into the pillow.

Tears streamed down her face, as if she might lose her breath. Under the pressure he applied, her delicate frame seemed on the verge of breaking. Though she yearned to pull out the thin quilt to cover herself, he forbade her from doing so.

He surveyed her form.

Melissa whispered hesitantly, “But this is all I possess.”

Marcus remained motionless.

His gaze lingered on her eyes, as if anticipating further words. When silence persisted, he released his grip, gradually distancing himself.

Marcus got up, took the thin quilt, and draped it over her, providing warmth and comfort.

Before her, he straightened his attire, swiftly restoring a polished demeanor.

Melissa huddled on the bed.

Pain pervaded her body, marked by remnants of his touch.

His voice, frigid, cut through the air. "What value do you place on your body? If mere physical satisfaction is my desire, I can easily find countless beauties. Must I persist with you?

You claimed to never love me.

Fine, I won't coerce you. My overthinking led me astray. I apologize, Miss Brown. Henceforth, we release any debts between us. You owe me nothing, and the 8@@ thousand dollars need not be repaid. It's best if our paths never cross again."

Numbness enveloped Melissa as she listened.

Meeting his icy gaze, she raised her eyes.

A sudden awareness struck her-his smile had been absent for an extended period of time.