Her phone rang, interrupting her thoughts and a childish voice echoed through the line. "Mommy, when are you coming back? Julie and I have been waiting. The cake is almost melted."

With a tender smile, Melissa assured, "I'll be home soon."

After hanging up the phone, Melissa hailed a taxi.

Marcus was right. Finding a cab here was effortless.

When Melissa finally arrived home, it was already quite late. Upon opening the door, she discovered her son Matthew seated at the table.

He appeared exhausted, his head nodding from drowsiness. Meanwhile, Julie was also on the verge of dozing off.

Melissa silently set down her handbag and proceeded to change her shoes.

She had purchased this apartment earlier in the year. The down payment for the 8Q-square-meter apartment was a big chunk, and she had also taken out a loan. Though not exceedingly wealthy because of the mortgage, she managed to lead a comfortable Life.

Approaching Matthew, she gently covered his eyes.

“Guess who's back?"

The little boy stirred awake immediately, grasping Melissa's hand and murmuring, "Mommy," his voice still laden with sleep.

Melissa kissed him tenderly. "I'll come home earlier from now on."

At this time, Julie also woke up.

"You're back so late, and you're wearing such thin clothes. It's cold outside." Julie empathized with Melissa's situation and rose from her seat. "Thankfully, it's not yet midnight. Let me warm up the food.

You can light the candles with Matt. He's been eagerly awaiting your return for most of the evening."

"Thank you," Melissa said.

Melissa settled into her seat, cradling her son in her lap. Julie, mindful of Melissa's attire, remarked, "Your outfit is expensive. Why don't you change first before holding him?"

“It's fine. The company paid for my clothes for such events."

Julie smiled. "Mr. Watson is generous. Your annual salary for this position is very good already."

Efficient as ever, Julie heated the food quickly.