Melissa shook her head.

In the past few years, thoughts of Marcus had crossed her mind every now and then, both positive and negative, but whether she loved him or not... it no longer seemed significant to her.

As darkness settled outside, the warm glow of the bedroom cast Marcus in a handsome light.

Observing Melissa's reaction, Marcus remained composed.

“Okay, I understand," he murmured softly.

Suddenly, his expression shifted. Rising to his feet, he extended his hand towards her, saying, “Dinner should be ready by now. You must be starving!"

Melissa anticipated Marcus would stay for dinner, but to her surprise, he donned his overcoat after exiting the bedroom. He went to hug Matthew and said softly, "Daddy has to leave!"

Matthew wrapped his arms around Marcus' neck, clearly reluctant to let go of him.

"Why not stay for dinner?" Julie suggested.

With a faint smile, Marcus declined, citing urgent matters. "I wish I could, but I have something urgent to attend to. Perhaps next time," he promised, kissing Matthew once more. "I'll come to see you another day."

After saying that, he handed Matthew over to Melissa, changed his shoes, and left.

After Marcus left, Matthew seemed to lose his appetite.

Handing a bowl of soup to Melissa, Julie remarked, “What did you say?

Mr. Fowler seems rather depressed."

Silently sipping the soup, Melissa couldn't shake off her somber mood.

Sensing her distress, Julie offered reassurance. “If you're not up for it, don't force yourself."

Melissa managed a bitter smile.

As night descended, Melissa found herself unable to sleep, despite Matthew's peaceful slumber beside her.

Rising quietly, she ventured into the living room for a drink of water. Upon her return, she noticed the white Bentley still parked outside the building.

Peeking through the curtains, Melissa observed the car, lost in thought.