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.