After a few seconds, she managed to utter, "Sylvia?"

Sylvia, seasoned in workplace dynamics, quickly regained her composure.

She placed the bag on the front desk, exchanged a few words with the receptionist, and then turned to Melissa, speaking softly. "Come with me. Mr. Fowler must be waiting for his breakfast."

Melissa bit her lip, feeling a bit hesitant.

She passed the bag to Sylvia and requested, “Could you... please take it up for me? I don't think Mr. Fowler wants to see me.

Last night had been rough between Marcus and Melissa.

She wondered if he might never want to see her again.

Sylvia, though not privy to the specifics of their situation, had a good idea about what had transpired. She knew Marcus all too well.

He was a man of wealth and pride, now deeply humiliated by almost being deceived and rejected by a young girl.

But it was clear he wasn't over Melissa.

If Marcus had truly moved on from Melissa, why would he be up there, smoking all night and battling a fever?

Sylvia wore a gentle smile and patted Melissa's shoulder. “Look, Mr. Fowler and I are two different people. Hey, we haven't caught up in so long. Don't you have any stories for me? I've been driving all night and now I have to attend to Mr. Fowler during the day. Melissa, you seem to know this place well. Could you give me some advice?"

Melissa found it hard to say no.

Talking wasn't her strong suit, especially with someone as experienced in the workplace as Sylvia.

Before she knew it, Sylvia had guided her towards the elevator.

They chatted and laughed on the way up. Sylvia, being a mother, could tell Melissa was struggling. To her, Melissa seemed naively adorable.

Sylvia thought that if only Melissa were a bit savvier, she could have a much better life, especially with someone like Marcus.

She then heaved a quiet sigh.

Soon, they were at the top floor. Melissa hesitated at the door, whispering to Sylvia, “The wonton soup is $12. With packaging and delivery, it's $15."

Within seconds, Sylvia was already using her room key card.