Julie had advised Melissa to think things over with Marcus.

Melissa wanted to give Marcus a chance, but it was clear they were on different pages. He was ready for her to drop everything to be with him, but she had commitments she couldn't abandon.

The project with Summit Ltd was her decisive point.

She needed to ace this project. It would be a testament to her capabilities wherever she went.

Moreover, it was her way of repaying Albert for recognizing her talents.

Melissa began to feel a bit more at ease after making up her mind.

Marcus opened his eyes and looked at her without saying a word.

Feeling a bit embarrassed, she quickly looked for a way out. "I should get up now."

He wrapped her up in the quilt, holding her close. "Stay in bed with me a little longer."

“Aren't you supposed to be at the office?"

"It's my birthday today. I'm not going to work, and you should take the day off too."

As he said this, his gaze intensified.

Melissa realized that he would insist on her staying unless she agreed to take a leave of absence. They had argued the night before, and she didn't want to prolong the conflict, so she consented. “I'll just grab my phone."

Marcus reached out for her phone and handed it to her.

Then, he leaned in and kissed her ear, murmuring, "Call Albert and let him know you're spending the day with me."

Melissa, finding his behavior somewhat childish, gently pushed him away. “Let me handle this properly.”

Marcus propped himself up on one arm, his eyes clear and focused.

Melissa's tone softened. "Remember, we agreed not to fight for now.

Let me take care of it, okay?"

He released her.