Matthew wore a somber expression.

Melissa maintained her composure, nodding politely to Violette before departing with Julie and the kids. Once they were out of earshot, Julie couldn't resist commenting, "Do you think Mr. Fowler did this deliberately? You two barely split up, and now he's with someone else."

Melissa opened the car door and ushered the children inside.

Melissa murmured softly, “They were a couple from the start. Now they've simply reunited."

Marcus and Melissa had been intimate in recent days. In truth, it was unfair to Violette. But was it fair to anyone involved?

Melissa wished those days hadn't occurred.

Upon returning home, she found herself in a sour mood. Opting to arrange flowers and listen to music to lift her spirits, she recognized the need to maintain a positive attitude despite Marcus having a new girlfriend.

Yvonne was overjoyed, harboring a fondness for Melissa.

Later in the evening, Janet arrived to collect Yvonne. Grateful, she expressed her appreciation to Melissa, who held a special fondness for Yvonne.

The presence of an additional child infused the household with liveliness.

On New Year's Eve, Melissa urged Julie to spend time with her own son's family. Left alone with Matthew at home, Melissa received a visit from Marcus in the afternoon to retrieve Matthew.

Marcus stood outside the door, displaying a strong sense of respect for boundaries.

Cradling Matthew in her arms, Melissa instructed him to be polite and show courtesy to others when he went to the Fowler mansion.

Matthew hesitated, his voice carrying a sweet plea. "I want to stay with you, Mommy."

Melissa hugged him tenderly.

She longed to celebrate the new year with Matthew, yet she recognized the Fowler family's commendable patience and restraint in not forcefully reclaiming him. She couldn't demand more.

She put the boy down and got to his level, coaxing him for an extended period of time.

Matthew eventually relented.

Marcus had been waiting outside the door. When Matthew emerged, Marcus bent down and scooped him up. Melissa approached the door silently and remarked, "If Miss Finch ever wants to visit the Fowlers' house and things get awkward, feel free to call me to pick up Matthew at any time."

Marcus furrowed his brow.