Matthew played with his squirt gun, remarking, “Mom said I don't have to call Daddy's new girlfriend ‘Mommy. '"

Suddenly, Melissa felt a twinge of unease.

She delicately tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear.

This move held a certain allure, though Melissa remained oblivious to its seductive undertones.

As Marcus held Matthew in one hand, his gaze fixed upon Melissa.

Though Melissa remained unchanged in appearance, there was a subtle difference about her.

She had an alluring refinement due to her recent weight loss.

Melissa was clad in a light pink silk top paired with a knitted fishtail skirt, a combination that accentuated her figure flawlessly.

Breaking the prolonged silence, Marcus spoke flatly. "Yes, your mom's right."

Melissa mustered a forced smile in response, waving at Matthew, who hesitated to leave, softly expressing, "I want Mommy... I want her to go with me."

Gently squeezing Matthew's hand, Melissa reassured him, “If you miss Mommy, I'll go get you back, okay?"

Matthew, leaning against Marcus, clung to Melissa, not wanting to let her go.

“Matthew wants a hug, Mommy."

Melissa stole a glance at Marcus, silently hoping he would pass Matthew over to her. Yet Marcus remained motionless. Reluctantly, she took a step forward and enveloped Matthew in a tender embrace.

In that close proximity, their breaths mingled.

After her afternoon shower, Melissa exuded the delicate fragrance. As she drew near, her hair brushed against Marcus's neck, evoking memories of their intimate lovemaking, a sensation that stirred Marcus' emotions. He always felt the softness of her hair against his skin as they intertwined in their embrace.

With that thought Lingering in his mind, Marcus was absent-minded, his expression shifting subtly.

After releasing Matthew, Melissa stepped back, stroking his head affectionately, urging, "Now listen to Daddy and be a good boy, okay?"

Matthew, with innocence in his voice, declared, "Matthew wants Mommy to be happy too," causing Melissa's heart to flutter.

Casting a brief glance at her, Marcus took Matthew and left.