If not a new relationship, then perhaps an old one? Wasn't that what was in his pocket?

As they descended the stairs together, Waylen smiled and quipped, “In fact, with the influence of our family, it wouldn't be difficult to bring Melissa back and have her marry you."

"Dad, if something isn't meant to be, trying to force it won't make much of a difference," Marcus replied, his tone firm.

Knowing his son, Waylen didn't press the matter further. Instead, he exchanged a meaningful glance with Rena.

Marcus obviously had not moved on from Melissa, as she would remain an inseparable part of his life no matter what.

During dinner, they avoided mentioning Melissa, but an air of tension hung over the table.

Unable to contain herself, Elva finally spoke up first. "Marcus, while you were at Alexis' place, someone from the Smith family paid a visit."

Marcus looked up at Elva, concern in his eyes.

Without hesitation, Elva continued, "They said they want their daughter back and that once they find her, they'll hold you responsible."

Marcus turned to his father for a response.

With a feigned smile, Waylen began serving food to his son. “Marcus, don't worry, even though I don't typically get involved in company matters anymore, I'm more than capable of handling those Smith brothers. Actually, your mother could handle them on her own."

Rena cast a discreet glance at Waylen.

Waylen snorted dismissively. “I won't do anything to them for now, for Melissa's sake."

Hoping for acknowledgment, Waylen had intended to ask for credit, but Marcus responded firmly, “Don't do it for Melissa's, or anyone else's sake. If they return, just drive them away."

Waylen's expression became inscrutable, his eyes revealing a mix of emotions.

After a momentary lull, he questioned, “Are you not interested in marrying her?"

Marcus, not in the mood for dinner anymore, stood up and walked outside. He stated firmly as he walked, "Melissa's surname is Brown, not Smith. Our family never had, and never will have, any connection with the Smiths, and we don't need them trying to get close to us.”

Marcus was acutely aware of the Smith family's true intentions.

While they claimed to want their daughter back, in reality, they merely sought connections with the Fowler family. However, Marcus knew this was an impossibility.

As Marcus opened the car door and settled in, he couldn't help but reflect on how things might have been different with Melissa if it weren't for the Smith family's interference. Perhaps she wouldn't have been so distant, and he wouldn't have misunderstood her.