Descending the stairs, he reached the car and secured Matthew into his child's seat. Meanwhile, Matthew's eyes roamed around, captivated by the car's pink interior, his fingers exploring with curiosity.

As Marcus fastened his seatbelt, Matthew's innocent inquiry pierced the silence.

“Daddy doesn't like Mommy now?"

Marcus, with a tender smile, dismissed the notion. “Don't be silly, you little rascal.”

Matthew, engrossed in his thoughts, continued, “It seems like it!

Other kids have both Daddy and Mommy living with them... Daddy used to sleep with Mommy and me, but not anymore."

Marcus, touched by Matthew's innocence, reassured him softly, “Don't worry. Daddy will always be here for you."

Though Matthew nodded, his melancholy lingered.

Marcus contemplated saying something further, but considering Matthew's young age, he wouldn't understand. In the end, he said nothing. Arriving at the Fowler family mansion, he parked the car.

As he glanced around in the twilight, he spotted Waylen patiently waiting for their arrival.

Marcus lowered the car window, and Matthew eagerly leaned out, catching sight of Waylen. With a delighted squeal, he tossed his toy aside and pressed his face against the window as Waylen approached.

Waylen lifted Matthew from the car, planting a gentle kiss on his cheek. "For my dear Matthew, may you grow taller in the new year."

Blushing, Matthew buried his face in Waylen's embrace.

Just then, Daniel arrived, and the two boys hit it off instantly, joined by Evelyn and other children who gathered for a joyous time.

Even Ollie, the playful puppy, bounded over, adding to the merry chaos on the lawn.

Stepping out of the car, Marcus observed the children's laughter with a mixture of nostalgia and detachment.

Waylen cleared his throat. "Where's Melissa?"

Marcus nonchalantly lit a cigarette, taking a drag before responding coolly, “We broke up.”

Waylen's expression soured as he slammed a document onto the hood of the car, demanding, “What's the meaning of this, Marcus? Bargaining with your girlfriend? You've truly astonished me! How dare you degrade Melissa like this?"

His voice trailed off as he scanned the agreement, his indignation rising. "Two hundred thousand dollars for monthly allowance? Marcus...