At that moment, the person seized the opportunity to encircle her waist with his hand, a gesture that came across as quite impolite.

Instinctively, Melissa moved to push the intruder away, but a familiar scent halted her. It was Marcus. Her face found refuge on his shoulder, taking a moment for her senses to return.

In addition to his perfume, she sensed the fabric of his suit against her skin.

Upon regaining composure, they found themselves standing eye-to-eye.

Under the crystal chandelier's glow in the shopping mall, Marcus appeared particularly striking. Perhaps his impromptu decision to venture out led to his attire-a black overcoat paired with a suit, imparting a sense of casual elegance.