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?"