The smirk faded from Marcus’ face. “If money or jewelry isn't your preference, do you aspire to be Mrs. Fowler?"

He rose and approached her, delicately pinching her chin.

Whispers brushed her ear. "Just take a look at yourself. You're repulsive. Do you truly believe you merit the title of my wife?"

Melissa's complexion paled further.

A sudden reluctance to explain gripped her, sensing Marcus’ profound disgust and disdain.

What purpose would explanations serve?

In Marcus' perception, Melissa amounted to nothing more than a swindler bartering her body and emotions for money. In his eyes, she paralleled Ryan.

The air hung heavy, a palpable tension between them.

Melissa's earlier passion, once aflame in Marcus’ indifferent embrace, now felt like a distant memory. The heat of their intimacy had faded, leaving a cold, awkward silence.

Embarrassment washed over Melissa.

Her lips quivered as she struggled with the desire to reveal her true identity to Marcus, yet each time the words neared escape, they retreated unspoken.

Marcus' harsh declaration that their fleeting encounter was worth two million dollars severed any lingering ties.

In that moment, their relationship crumbled to dust.

Regret gnawed at Melissa. Perhaps her journey to Duefron was a mistake. Maybe it was better to let Marcus harbor his disdain, believing her to be superficial. Hatred, she reasoned, would eventually fade, leaving her as the sole custodian of their shared memories.

Clutching the quilt closer, Melissa removed her ring, placing it on the bedside table.

It never truly belonged to her.

Rising from the bed, she dressed unhurriedly, indifferent to her exposed skin. Her clothes, damp from the rain earlier, clung uncomfortably to her body, but her desire to leave overshadowed any discomfort.

Escape was all she yearned for now, as fervently as she had once craved his presence. Her hands trembled slightly as she fastened the last button...

Marcus watched her, his gaze unyielding.

Finally clothed, Melissa bid him farewell, a finality in her tone.