A sinking feeling settled in her chest as she speculated that Marcus might be at her place.

Standing in the fading twilight, Melissa deliberated for a while before finally ascending the stairs. As she pushed open the door, the sound of Matthew's laughter and Marcus' comforting voice drifted out from the main bedroom.

Julie emerged from the kitchen, a spatula in hand, her expression awkward.

"Mr. Fowler has been here since noon," Julie informed her. "He's been playing with Matthew this whole time.”

Nodding, Melissa changed into her indoor shoes and Julie, sensing something amiss, asked, "What's wrong, Melissa? Did you and Mr. Fowler have a quarrel?"

Melissa didn't shy away from the truth. "Yes, we had some disagreements," she admitted.

With a reassuring smile, Julie offered, "It's normal for couples to argue, especially young ones like you two. Mr. Fowler must care deeply for you to leave his work and wait for you for so long."

Melissa wasn't surprised by Julie's reaction.

With his social status, Marcus' gesture might have moved other women, but Melissa wasn't swayed.

She had been in love with Marcus before and knew his behavior patterns all too well.

In a hushed tone, Melissa confided in Julie. "Marcus is involved with someone else."

Hearing that, Julie was taken aback.

After a moment of silence, she questioned, “Hasn't he broken up with that girl? What's he playing at, having a foot in both camps?"

With a gentle smile, Melissa replied, "It doesn't matter. I'll go in and see what's going on."

Concerned that Melissa might confront Marcus again, Julie urged, “Anyway, he's still Matthew's father. For the sake of the boy, try not to argue in front of him."

Melissa gave Julie her promise.

She wasn't one to fly off the handle easily. Over the years, she had learned to control her emotions. How could she argue with Marcus in front of Matthew?

With determination, Melissa entered the main bedroom, where the warmth of the heater enveloped her.

Matthew, clad in a light blue onesie, sat on the floor, engrossed in building blocks. Marcus leaned against the bed, patiently engaging with his son.

Melissa stood silently, watching them for a moment, before Marcus' gaze met hers.