After shopping and enjoying lunch outdoors, as they prepared to depart, Matthew suddenly exclaimed, "Daddy!"

Melissa followed Matthew's line of sight.

Peering through a pane of glass, Melissa observed Marcus sipping coffee with a woman who appeared to be his new partner. However, upon the woman's turn of head, Melissa was taken aback to discover it was Violette.

They were back together?

It wouldn't be appropriate for Melissa to just leave at this moment, especially since Marcus had already seen her.

Marcus, with his penetrating gaze, calmly regarded Melissa and Matthew in her embrace. He then turned to Violette, seated across from him, and remarked, "I'll ponder this issue. Inform your parents to await further updates."

Violette, her eyes glistening with tears, pleaded, "Marcus, you're my only hope."

Sporting a slight smile, Marcus rose from his seat and addressed Violette, "Excuse me for a moment." Violette followed suit and saw Melissa as well.

Melissa's son, cradled in her arms, looked utterly adorable.

Violette confessed to harboring a twinge of jealousy. She couldn't shake the feeling that Marcus might not have chosen Melissa if not for the child. Yet she had heard rumors of their breakup.

Marcus exited the cafe, and Matthew reached out, requesting to be held by him.

Marcus nodded in acknowledgment at Julie and inadvertently cast a glance at Melissa. He then took the boy from her and tenderly inquired, “Have you had lunch?"

Matthew seized Marcus’ hand and placed it on his tummy, prompting a giggle from the boy.

Marcus caressed the tender boy, melting his heart, yet he remained indifferent toward Melissa. In a detached tone, Marcus remarked, “Matthew's hands feel chilly."

Melissa forced a smile and replied, "We're just about to head home."

Spotting Violette approaching, Melissa didn't dwell on it. Assuming they were together and on a date, she stated, "I won't keep you any longer. You can collect Matthew tomorrow."

Marcus' gaze held depth.

Meanwhile, Violette stood beside Marcus, playfully engaging with Matthew. However, Matthew grew bashful, burying his face in his father's shoulder, hesitant to converse with Violette.

Violette gazed at Marcus, her expression adorned with a sweet smile.

Julie's heart sank as she observed the scene, realizing the slim chances of reconciliation between Marcus and Melissa. Just as Julie contemplated speaking up, Marcus nodded slightly and passed Matthew over to Melissa.