Subsequently, he extinguished the cigarette and gently inquired, “Why are you awake?"

Unaware of his ongoing meeting, Melissa hugged him tenderly, aiming to bring him joy. She tightened her fingers around his waist.

Marcus was astute.

Discerning that she had recently awakened and was stirring, he turned around and gently tousled her hair.

It was then that he noticed she was clad in his black shirt. Due to her petite frame, she wore it as if it were a nightgown.

"Head to bed first. I have a meeting to attend."

Reluctant to part, Melissa lifted her head and asked in a hushed tone, “Will it take a long time? Can I stay with you?"

Marcus sighed. “You needy little girl.”

The meeting was expected to last for four hours. The young girl truly needed an early bedtime, especially considering her challenging past two months. She had noticeably shed weight. Although she felt delicate and light in his arms, Marcus contemplated that she should gain a bit of weight.

Nonetheless, Melissa was determined to keep him company.

Failing to receive his approval, she persisted, almost clinging to him.

Just as Marcus was on the verge of giving in, a familiar voice echoed from the meeting's other end-none other than his father, Waylen.

“Marcus, what's going on?

Your cross-country meeting has turned into a love broadcast. In the middle of the night, your partner called me directly, urging me to join the live broadcast. Haha. And, by the way, your grandfather is also here online, watching you."

The situation had spiraled out of control.

Marcus turned to the screen and observed a group of elderly men. His father was the most prominent figure among them.

Without a hint of emotion, Marcus deactivated the camera.

Subsequently, Marcus glanced at Melissa. Fortunately, she hadn't unwittingly revealed herself.

Equally startled, she gazed at him in bewilderment, apprehensive of his potential anger.

“You silly girl."