Sylvia offered a comforting smile. “It's normal for a young girl to be a bit willful."

Suddenly, Marcus found himself thinking of Melissa. Had she ever had the opportunity to express her emotions freely, to throw a tantrum when she was sad or angry? He imagined her living a restrained life, always holding back.

As the workers replaced the carpet, Marcus continued to mull over his thoughts.

He didn't reach out to Melissa all day, pondering the idea of giving her the space to grow and make her own decisions, much like what Albert did. Perhaps by granting her the freedom to choose, she might reconsider and love him again.

After all, their night together meant more to him than just a one-night stand.

Keeping his thoughts to himself, Marcus refrained from contacting Melissa. However, when she returned home from work, she was surprised to find the man she had spent the night with helping Julie cook in the kitchen.

Frozen in the doorway, Melissa forgot to change her shoes as she observed the scene.

Julie spotted her and welcomed her with a smile. "Mr. Fowler arrived early and has been lending a hand in the kitchen. Can you imagine?

A CEO helping me cook! Wash your hands and go check on Matthew. He's asleep. Dinner will be ready soon."

Marcus smiled warmly, addressing Julie, "You can just call me Marcus."

Julie hesitated, feeling unsure about using such an intimate form of address given Marcus’ prestigious status.

Marcus didn't insist.

Turning to Melissa, he seemed at ease. “Matthew played until he wore himself out! I'll bathe him when he wakes up, and then I'll head out. Is that alright?"

Marcus had a sensible request, so Melissa couldn't say no.

They just had sex last night, though.

And that left her feeling kind of awkward.

Putting on her indoor shoes, Melissa headed for the bedroom. "I'll go check on Matthew," she said.

Passing the dining table, she avoided eye contact with Marcus.

Inside the bedroom, she realized her heart was racing with anxiety.

Meanwhile, Matthew was out cold asleep on the bed.