After hearing Julie's response, Marcus ended the call.

Melissa's voice grew tense. "I'm not going to your place."

Marcus kept his eyes on the road, ignoring her comment. They drove through the city streets until they reached a gated villa community.

The car stopped in front of a villa, its headlights flashing, as the elaborate black gate slowly opened.

They drove the white Bentley inside.

After parking, Marcus and Melissa sat in silence for a couple of minutes before Marcus turned to look at her.

Melissa gazed at the villa before her in silence.

It was a sight to behold, sprawling and opulent.

She knew that such a villa was a rarity in Duefron. Even the wealthy seldom had the means to afford such luxury. All she had to do was soften her stance with Marcus and leave the Waston Group. She could then enjoy a comfortable life in this villa for years to come.

The idea was tempting.

But Albert's words echoed in her mind. What she earned by herself was truly and rightfully hers.

The distance between her and Marcus was vast. If her lifestyle depended on him, her future wouldn't look bright. She'd find herself living in the shadow of his moods, especially without her parents backing.

Melissa turned slightly, her voice soft but firm. "Mr. Waston is returning to Heron next year. He's assured me that I'll receive one percent of the Waston Group shares if I manage to secure the deal with Summit Ltd. Marcus, this means everything to me."

In saying so, she left a window open for negotiation.

Albert had recognized her value and taught her so much.

Yet, her heart belonged to Marcus, a fact she never hid.

All she wished for was Marcus' understanding of her predicament.

Gently caressing the steering wheel, Marcus said tenderly, "I can offer you everything he does, and more. Melissa, I'm only asking you to quit your job, not to betray him or anything. Is that so hard?"

Melissa remained silent.

In their current situation, she wouldn't make such a choice just for Marcus.