He had let her go the night before, never expecting her to seek him out again.

His body was a mix of anger and desire. He couldn't hold back, regardless of her pleas. Now mattered how hard she tried, he still refused to let her go.

To stop her from crying, he pressed his lips against hers.

Time seemed to stand still.

His gaze was intense, fixed solely on her. He claimed her slowly, yet with certainty.

This was the first time that Melissa had ever been physical with someone.

This revelation stirred them both.

It was Marcus' first time too. In that luxurious suite, amid his sickness and her discomfort, they gave themselves to each other in a heated, hurried manner.

Melissa's tears flowed, her nose reddened. Eventually, she wrapped her arms around his neck, calling out his name.

Marcus kept his eyes on her, his look a complex mix of love, hatred, and confusion. He hesitated, prolonging their intimacy.

Neither of them focused on the pleasure.

Their only concern at this moment was them being together.

Eventually, Marcus regained his composure. He cradled Melissa's face in his hands and kissed her deeply.

He didn't just kiss her; he drew her into a reciprocal embrace.

One by one, her remaining clothes joined the others on the floor.

Soon, they were entwined, their passion escalating.

Outside, Sylvia quietly shut the door upon initially hearing Marcus' voice inside.

She stood there for a moment longer and discreetly listened in.

What happened inside the room next had her utterly astonished.

Her concern for Marcus grew. His fever made strenuous activity risky.