Marcus' words left Melissa astounded.

Before arriving, Melissa had anticipated Marcus’ anger and objections to her decision. During her journey, she even contemplated making compromises. However, she was taken aback by Marcus' ruthlessness. It finally dawned on her that Marcus was really pissed by Albert's words at the club that night. Perhaps she had been too swayed by his smooth talk to notice it sooner, or maybe Marcus never truly believed in her. Instead, he assumed an ambiguous relationship existed between her and Albert.

With her eyes cast downward, Melissa deliberated deeply on her true desires.

She also weighed the potential consequences of breaking up with Marcus and how it might impact Matthew. Lost in these thoughts, she was unaware that Marcus was steadfastly watching her, his gaze unwavering.

Marcus presumed sensible individuals would make the right choice.

Finally, Melissa lifted her head and stared into his eyes.

Desperation tinged her gaze as she spoke hoarsely. “I've dedicated six months to this project, investing a significant amount of time and effort. Yet, you simply snatch it away. Have you ever considered my feelings, Marcus? You may have strong feelings for me, but I've made it clear that if we're together, you must respect me and treat me as an equal. You're bothered by Albert's presence. But do you think I'm unaffected by the presence of Jessie and Violette?"

Marcus pursed his lips, saying, “At the very least, consider it.”

Melissa shook her head firmly. "That's unnecessary! Mr. Fowler, you're still the same. In your eyes, I'm nothing more than an accessory. You don't care about my feelings or my aspirations. ALL you want is to be in control. You envision me as staying at home, playing the role of the dutiful wife, and bearing your children, all so you can portray yourself as the perfect father and husband to the outside world.

But that's not what I desire, Marcus.

I don't need you to survive. And I'll always remember that Mr. Waston was the one who extended a helping hand to me when I was at my lowest."

Marcus gazed at her and inquired, "So, have you made your decision?"

Melissa rose to her feet confidently. "Yes! I have to go for him.

And... I believe we're not right for each other, Marcus." With those words, she headed for the door.

As her hand reached for the doorknob, Marcus' voice stopped her in her tracks.

“Are you sure about this, Melissa?"

With a firm grip on the doorknob, Melissa lifted her chin defiantly, suppressing the urge to cry. With a gentle tone, she asserted, “I'm serious, Marcus. We're just not compatible."

She was aware of Marcus' disappointment, and she shared the sentiment.

If only he could understand her perspective, he wouldn't treat her so oppressively. At times, Melissa didn't want to let go, but then she questioned the value of continuing such a relationship.

With tears welling up, she declared, "I'll go get Matthew. We'll discuss this later, after I return from Heron."