Marcus turned to gaze at the snowflakes falling beyond the French window. Sylvia continued, “Duefron hasn't experienced such heavy snowfall in several years. By the time we get off work, I'm afraid the ground will be covered in a thick layer of snow."

Marcus remained silent as he contemplated the falling snow.

He then proposed, “How about we make everyone end work at 4:00 today?"

This offer surprised Sylvia. In the past, even in adverse weather conditions, employees weren't allowed to leave work before 6:00.

Marcus' change in attitude was quite unexpected.

Sylvia left promptly with the approved documents in hand.

As Marcus was about to peruse the documents, his phone rang, and it was Leonel calling.

"Marcus, I'm stuck in a snowstorm in Tashkao," Leonel informed him.

"Alexis and Daniel have a hospital appointment scheduled tomorrow. If you have the time, could you accompany them? I don't think I'll be able to make it."

Marcus responded tersely, “Alright.”

Leonel had learned about Melissa from Elva, and though he wanted to inquire further, he ultimately decided against it.

The following morning, as the snowfall subsided, a delicate layer of winter snow blanketed the ground.

Marcus, donning a dark gray overcoat, carried little Daniel in his arms, while Alexis trailed behind him.

Opening the back door of the car, Marcus carefully placed Daniel in Alexis' waiting arms after she got in.

Daniel's cherubic features and tender demeanor captured Marcus' attention. He found himself another at the stealing glance baby, lost in thought.

A pang of melancholy washed over Marcus as he contemplated what could have been. If there had been no misunderstandings between him and Melissa, perhaps they would also have a child by now.

Being a mother of two, Alexis, sensing the turmoil in Marcus' expression, ventured quietly, “You still haven't found her, have you?"

Marcus offered a faint, resigned smile in response.

He didn't delve into the topic any further. To ensure the baby's warmth, he promptly closed the car door.

The ground was covered in a pristine blanket of snow, and Marcus drove cautiously, mindful of the road conditions.