Marcus offered a mild smile in response. "Of course."

Thomas gestured to Melissa, “Let's proceed.”

They navigated through the club to a more opulent private room, where Weldon was seated, steeped in thought over his tea.

Upon their entry, Thomas announced softly, “Weldon, Melissa has arrived."

Weldon lifted his gaze to meet Melissa's, his look filled with a mixture of remorse and longing that he hadn't shown earlier. It was as if Melissa's presence brought someone else to his mind.