Melissa was at a loss for words.

Matthew gripped Melissa's hand, disappointment clouding his face.

Melissa tousled his hair.

She then looked up and met Marcus' gaze. "Stop saying that in front of Matthew. It's not what I meant."

"Oh?"

Marcus drawled, “So you're saying you won't find another guy? Fine, for Matthew's sake, I won't get involved with anyone new either. But can you hold out?"

Melissa wasn't naive.

He was pushing her to make a choice in front of Matthew.

Normally, she'd brush off Marcus' antics but, with Matthew watching her eagerly, afraid she was going to replace his dad, she couldn't ignore it.

Melissa let out a soft sigh. "Okay."

Marcus, all serious, said, "I expect you to stick to your word, Miss Brown."

Then, grabbing Matthew's hand, Marcus announced, “Hop in the car.

We're off to pick up a pup."

With the excitement of the puppy, Matthew quickly forgot about everything else, settling into the back seat with glee. Marcus grabbed the car door but not before giving Melissa's dress a lingering glance, murmuring, "You look great in that."

Melissa brushed him off, slipping into the car, but Marcus’ touch sent a jolt through her.

She glanced back. Marcus flashed a charming smile.

Blushing, she turned away, joining Matthew. Oblivious to the tension between the adults, Matthew chattered away about the puppy.

Marcus shut the door and hopped in.

As he buckled up, he suggested softly, “Let's go for a poodle.”

But Melissa worried a poodle would be too big once grown.