By the time they arrived at the hospital, it was nearly nine o'clock.

The Fowler family's status afforded them special treatment at the hospital. With the baby in her arms, Alexis smiled at Marcus and said, "Wait for me outside. I'll be back in about an hour."

Marcus nodded and watched as Alexis entered the hospital.

The hospital's gynecology and obstetrics department was bustling with expectant mothers and their spouses.

Marcus, feeling somewhat out of place, opted to take the escalator downstairs to purchase a lighter. The escalator was also crowded with mostly pregnant women undergoing prenatal examinations, accompanied by their attentive husbands.

As Marcus stood there, his expression somber, his lips tightly pursed, his phone suddenly rang.

It was Sylvia on the line.

He swiftly answered the call, and as Sylvia delved into a few business matters, Marcus efficiently issued instructions.

Unbeknownst to Marcus, amidst the bustling crowd, a significant figure went unnoticed.

It was Melissa, her presence concealed by the swarm of people.

With her hand firmly gripping the handrail, Melissa ascended the escalator alone, her pace deliberate.

She passed by Marcus, who remained engrossed in his conversation, oblivious to her proximity.

Dressed in a large down jacket, Melissa struggled to hide the pronounced swell of her belly. In a moment of disbelief, she stared at Marcus, who seemed deep in contemplation while holding his phone.

The baby in Melissa's womb seemed to sense something and gave a sudden kick, but Melissa remained unaware.

She turned her head to gaze at Marcus, her expression distant and contemplative.

When the escalator move upward, Melissa soon disappeared into the bustling crowd.

At that moment, a voice tinged with surprise called out, “Melissa.”

Melissa?

She was... here in town?

The phone in Marcus' hand fell to the floor, but he paid it no mind.