In the hallway, the members of Melissa's generational cohort from both families observed her silently. Growing increasingly uncomfortable, Melissa reiterated, "It's getting late. I'll be taking Matthew home."

Rena implored Melissa to stay. “We've been inconsiderate. You've likely been waiting outside for some time. There's still time to enjoy a cup of fragrant tea before you leave."

Rena exuded warmth and kindness, and her demeanor was consistently gentle toward Melissa.

Not wishing to cause Rena any discomfort by rejecting her, Melissa acquiesced.

Elva pulled Melissa aside and suggested, “Let's play cards together.

Take a seat here. Just keep an eye out for Olivia trying to deal from the bottom of the deck."

Olivia immediately protested and engaged in a verbal spur with Elva.

Meanwhile, Mark and Cecilia exchanged glances. Then, Cecilia reached into her bag and retrieved two gifts, addressing Melissa, "You're Melissa, correct? I've heard a lot about you. It's nice to finally meet you."

The gifts presented were beyond Melissa's means to accept.

Mark grinned. “One is for you, the other for Matthew. He's adorable.”

Rena arrived with scented tea. "Just accept them. Mark and Cecilia don't visit us in Duefron often."

Despite feeling uneasy, Melissa accepted the gifts graciously.

Violette's parents harbored a twinge of jealousy seeing Melissa being treated favorably in the Fowler household. Despite spending ample time at the Fowlers' residence, Mark and his wife neglected to present Violette with any gifts, while the outsider Melissa received offerings the moment she arrived.

Luna spoke up, her tone raised. “Miss Brown, you're not Marcus’ wife or even his girlfriend. How can you accept those gifts from his family?"

Luna's remarks caused Melissa to flush with embarrassment.

Violette also found her mother's comment overly harsh and discreetly tugged at the hem of her garment.

Luna whispered back, “If I don't confront her directly, she'll continue pursuing Marcus. And that will upset you."

Marcus, along with most of the people in the hall, could hear Luna's words. However, Waylen was the first to express his irritation.

“What's all this chatter about? It's not your concern, as an outsider, to meddle in our affairs."

Just as Luna was about to respond, Violette interjected, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. “Mom, please, stop."