Given their separation, sharing the same space overnight seemed out of place.

She had no desire to relive the discomfort endured the other night at the Fowler residence.

With that thought, Melissa moved to the sofa and said softly, “It's time for you to go. I can look after Matthew on my own."

Marcus leaned on the sofa, casually placing a hand behind his head, his gaze sharp as he observed her.

“What's the matter? Scared people will talk? Or are you concerned that Mr. Waston or Violette might get the wrong idea?"

Having spent two days in the hospital since Matthew fell ill, Melissa was exhausted and really wasn't up for an argument. Finally, she replied with a hint of resignation, "Fine. If you insist on staying, then I'll come back tomorrow morning to take over."

It seemed like the only reasonable option to Melissa at that moment.

Marcus continued to gaze at her intensely, yet remained silent.

Melissa looked down, ready to gather her belongings, when suddenly Marcus caught her wrist... In an instant, she was in Marcus' embrace.

Through his coat, she could distinctly feel the rhythm of Marcus' heartbeat.

Melissa was taken by surprise, completely thrown off balance.

She hadn't anticipated Marcus cornering her like this. After a brief moment of shock, she tried to pull away, but Marcus gripped her hand firmly, showing no signs of letting go.

Their faces were inches apart, his breath warm against her ear, causing her to feel increasingly uncomfortable.

"It's just a reflex. Don't read too much into it, Miss Brown."

Melissa clenched her teeth, replying sharply, "I'm not thinking anything! Let go of me, right now."

Yet, Marcus didn't release her. He drew her even closer... Despite their son sleeping on the bed nearby, Marcus seemed utterly indifferent. Now he only had eyes for Melissa.

The bright light made Melissa's cheeks turn a deep shade of red.

Her voice shook with anger as she demanded, “What are you trying to do, Marcus?"

Being under Marcus' control made Melissa lose her usual confidence.

Her words sounded more like a plea than a question.