Now Marcus', her once innocent face now bore a hint of womanly allure.

The hustle of the station quieted.

Passersby watched as the imposing man fixed his gaze on a petite woman.

“Marcus," Melissa whispered faintly.

Her arm was seized with such force that it reddened instantly.

No one intervened.

Marcus was accompanied by ten formidable bodyguards in black.

Outside, Marcus' vehicle awaited, an eight seater with tinted windows, shielding the interior from prying eyes.

Melissa was ushered into the back row, Marcus taking a seat beside her, his demeanor icy.

Despite her preparation, Melissa struggled with the tension.

The vehicle started, and she leaned back, withdrawn and contemplative.

She didn't question him, the reason was mutually understood.

Marcus remained aloof, methodically unfastening his cufflinks, and then staring silently out the window, deep in thought.

The car made its way back to the five-star hotel.

At the hotel entrance, Fowler Group employees were boarding a bus to Duefron. Their attention was drawn to the abrupt arrival of Marcus' car, from which he emerged, escorting Melissa.

The mood was palpably tense.

The female staff of Fowler Group were taken aback. Just days earlier, Marcus had seemed so gentle to Melissa. What had prompted such a stark change in his demeanor?

Their eyes fell on the luggage the bodyguards carried, and they realized the situation.

Marcus had been left once again.

Unconcerned with the onlookers, he led Melissa straight to the hotel room. The bodyguards delivered the luggage and then stationed themselves outside the door.