Amidst the darkness, Marcus scrutinized her for a prolonged moment.

Leaning in, he shamelessly kissed her, inquiring, "Feeling more comfortable now?"

Blushing, Melissa refrained from further banter, hesitant to engage in any more flirtation.

She delicately nestled her face against his shoulder, savoring his comforting scent.

In this very moment, the fragrance of happiness enveloped her.

Anticipating insomnia, she was pleasantly surprised to find herself sound asleep until seven in the morning.

When Melissa opened her eyes, she discovered that Marcus was no longer beside her in bed. The sound of intermittent conversation emanated from outside, with one voice unmistakably belonging to Marcus and the other appearing to be Sylvia's.

In her momentary confusion, Marcus swung the door ajar and entered.

Observing her dazed state on the bed, he couldn't suppress a smile.

“Hey, I was just about to wake you up."

Closing the distance, he approached.

Accustomed to playful teasing, he pinched her cheek, adopting a domineering tone. “You drooled quite a bit last night, Melissa. Are you aware that you're a drooler in your sleep?"

A blush colored Melissa's cheeks.

Leaning in, he gently rubbed his nose against hers and smiled.

"You're like a little; an unweaned one that is," he remarked affectionately.

"You... You're the one who hasn't weaned."

Retorting with a reddened face, Melissa pondered the hopelessness of her situation. How had she developed feelings for someone who enjoyed teasing her?

A brief moment of contention ensued.

Sealing his words with a kiss, Marcus instructed, “Rise and shine.

You're heading back to fetch your ID, aren't you?"