Closing in on her, he locked eyes with her tear-filled gaze, sneering.

“You're as stubborn as ever."

Through teary eyes and trembling lips, Melissa retorted defiantly, “Mr. Fowler, you're no better."

Marcus fixed his gaze on her.

Men and women often differed in their approaches to situations. While men might appear rational, they could also be prone to impulsivity.

For instance, although Marcus should have been addressing the matter of Matthew and his future custody, all he could think about in that moment was holding the woman in his arms, kissing her passionately, and indulging in potentially more intimate actions.

Tenderly tracing her lips, he murmured huskily, “I've missed you terribly all these years."

Melissa, being experienced, comprehended the depth of Marcus' intentions. His words didn't merely convey longing; they also hinted at the primal desire between men and women.

Her anger flared, prompting her to avert her gaze. “Is this the reason for summoning me here?"

Recognizing her genuine anger, Marcus realized he couldn't persist, yet he couldn't resist murmuring in her ear, "I yearn for it so deeply. Will you indulge me?"

They were both adults and had engaged in it numerous times.

Yet his desire remained unquenched.

However, Melissa couldn't shake Violette out of her mind. Knowing Violette had declared herself Marcus' girlfriend, Melissa felt a twinge of revulsion at his sudden advances.

Meeting his gaze, Melissa inquired calmly, "Isn't Violette enough for you? What's with your sudden lust?"

Marcus queried with a gentle smile, “Feeling jealous?"

He released Melissa.

He rose from the bed, expecting Melissa to follow suit. Despite their intimate interaction, both remained fully clothed, having maintained their neat appearance throughout.

As Melissa straightened her silk stockings, her hands trembled.

Marcus' gaze remained fixed.

Once she finished, he suggested, "Let's dine first. I've prepared a spread of your favorite dishes."