Perhaps something had happened at the company.

After answering the phone and listening to what Sylvia had to say, Marcus hung up and said to Melissa, "I have to go to the company right now. It won't be convenient for you to take Matthew with you, so let me take care of him."

But Matthew grumbled stubbornly, "I want to be with mommy."

Marcus broke into a smile and patted the little boy's head affectionately. Then he looked at Melissa and said, "It seems he's more attached to you."

At his father's words, Matthew handed the water gun to Marcus in an obvious act of generosity.