To rid himself of this turmoil.

Irritated, he headed to the home gym, venting his anger for hours.

Exhausted, he hoped sleep would come quickly.

But at three in the morning, he lay awake, staring into the darkness.

Unable to resist, he rose to check if Melissa had left. He opened the door with a racing heart...

The night was as chilly as ice.

As Marcus swung the door ajar, there stood Melissa, steadfast in her position.

She stood against the wall, eyes closed, appearing as though she were asleep.

Illuminated by the crystal lamp overhead, her visage took on a gentle glow. The delicate hairs on her face were visible, lending her a youthful allure.

A veneer of innocence adorned her countenance.

Melissa remained undisturbed in her slumber.

Marcus lingered in contemplation, and then withdrew silently, closing the door behind him.

The sound roused Melissa from her repose. Blinking, she gazed vacantly at the door, uncertain whether Marcus had emerged or if it was a trick of her perception.

She gazed at the door in a daze, attempting to make a sound, but not a single word could escape her Lips.

Discomfort gnawed at her, compelling her to approach his door and tenderly rap upon it.

Her silent plea echoed in her desire for Marcus to open the door.

Behind the door, Marcus immersed himself in deafening music.

Wearing a bathrobe, he stood by the French window, sipping ice water, clearly in a sour mood.

After roughly thirty minutes, he retrieved his phone and dialed Sylvia's number. "There's a collaboration project in Livebop, correct?

I'll handle it personally. Arrange the earliest flight for me."