Unmoved, both Ryan and his father remained steadfast.

Melissa's eyes reflected a newfound intensity, something fiercer than anything they'd ever seen in her before.

There was a conviction that if Merry dared to make a move, Melissa wouldn't hesitate to take extreme measures.

Calmly, Melissa tossed $5000 on the table before making a composed exit from the ward.

Stepping outside, Melissa was followed by Ryan's hesitant voice.

"Melissa."

Turning around, Melissa met his gaze in silence. Their scarce encounters over the past two years have rendered them strangers.

Ryan appeared unwell, and his health had not seemed to improve at all.

Melissa, indifferent to the cause of his deteriorating health, remained unfazed.

Breaking the prolonged silence, he questioned, “Do you genuinely have feelings for Marcus?"

In Ryan's view, it seemed implausible. What did Marcus possess other than wealth?

Melissa had been raised in the Jenkins family, and one would expect her to have a strong attachment to them, but surprisingly, she favored Marcus. Ryan's mother had conveyed to him that Melissa was always a restless individual.

Melissa responded with a bitter smile, countering, “Does it really matter?"

It didn't matter anymore. The crucial point was that, regardless of whom Melissa chose to love, the Jenkins family wouldn't allow her to leave them behind and live a peaceful life. They were driven by greed, and at the same time, they stifled any attempt for her to stand out. Their efforts to suppress her had persisted for a long time.

Her naivety became evident; the fleeting joy of those days with Marcus deceived her into believing she could really attain Lasting happiness this time.

Ryan found himself unsettled by Melissa's composed and indifferent demeanor.

Jealousy consumed Ryan, fueled by Marcus' wealth and family background, which seemed to rob Melissa of her true self.

Ryan faced a grim fate.

His health was deteriorating, and he acknowledged his inability to find a suitable match. He had resolved to marry Melissa, counting on her Jenkins family ties to secure her affection.

After a moment of contemplation, Ryan revealed, “I've earned some money and was considering upgrading to a larger house. Melissa, you understand the challenges of acquiring a 120-square-meter house in a prime location in Duefron.”