Facing the chilly wind, she met Weldon's gaze, her tone indifferent.

"My mother believed your sweet words, and look where it got her.

Weldon, there will never be peace between us. I want nothing from you, not your wealth or your fame!"

Weldon regarded her with a pensive expression.

Eventually, he instructed Thomas to clean up the mess before retreating to his vehicle. Seated inside, Weldon pondered Melissa's indifference and Matthew's hostility. He couldn't comprehend their animosity toward him. After all, he was wealthy and influential. Why couldn't Melissa be as amiable as her mother?

He couldn't fathom why Melissa harbored such disdain for him despite her mother's adoration. Why?!

Weldon was extremely disheartened by it.

Thomas turned to look at Melissa.

Matthew, exhausted, had drifted off to sleep in Melissa's arms.

Resting her cheek against his, Melissa gently patted his back.

Thomas remained courteous, even when interacting with someone from the Fowler family.

With a heavy sigh, he addressed Marcus. "I apologize for today's events. My brother was desperate. He felt he had no other options."

However, Marcus wasn't swayed.

Responding in a chilly tone, he countered, "So because the Smith family lacks an heir, you feel entitled to seize someone else's child?"

Thomas was taken aback, touching his nose in embarrassment.

Marcus had no desire to engage further with Thomas. Both Melissa and Matthew were visibly shaken, prompting Marcus to expedite their departure.

Approaching Melissa, who still cradled Matthew, Marcus found the boy resting on her shoulder.

Matthew's eyes were teary as he gazed at him. Seeing this, Marcus gently tousled his hair, murmuring softly, "Let's go home, alright?"

Melissa bit her lip, while Matthew, suddenly wrapping his arms around her neck, whimpered.

“I'm scared there'll be more bad guys!