Marcus replied blankly, "The file says it all, Miss Brown. Do you need me to read it to you?"

Gritting her teeth, Melissa shook her head. "No, thanks."

She skimmed through the document swiftly, her muscles tensing as she looked at Marcus warily.

The document promised her a fortune.

There would be a big house for her and Matthew, and it would be transferred under her name. In addition to that, Marcus would give her five million dollars as the living expenses each month. He would also cover Matthew's education, and Matthew would inherit other properties from the Fowler family when he came of age. As Matthew's father, Marcus could come to visit him at any time. If he wanted, he could even stay with Matthew over the night.

But there was no extra term for Melissa.

But there was indeed a caveat: if she were to get married, Matthew would fall into Marcus' care. While it seemed Melissa held sway, Marcus quietly pulled the strings, guiding not only her fate but also her marital bond.

"I'm not buying it," Melissa said firmly.

Marcus wasn't surprised by her refusal.

If she had caved easily, it would have been suspicious. That resolve had severed their ties three years prior.

Marcus flipped through the document casually with his slender fingers.

"Sure about this? Think about the custody battle for Matthew. Are you ready for that?"

Melissa shook her head, resolute. "You wouldn't do this! Not if you care about Matthew. Marcus, you are still young. Miss Finch and you can always have your own children. You shouldn't take Matthew with you."

“If I have Matthew, I don't need to marry," Marcus replied.

Melissa stared at him incredulously. What game was he playing?

Regardless, she wasn't going to play along.

Standing up abruptly, she declared, “That's it. I'm out!"

Marcus remained seated, his expression darkening. “Leaving so soon?"

“What more do you want?

If you're feeling horny, go find your girlfriend or some other woman.