Janet's elbow nudged Shawn gently, her whisper meant to temper his enthusiasm. “Remember, Jessie comes from a wealthy family and is an important friend to Melissa. Let's not cause any discomfort."

Shawn's sheepish grin acknowledged the reprimand.

Meanwhile, Jessie, nursing a sore arm from her vaccinations, sensed an undercurrent of tension.

Despite Melissa's effort to maintain normalcy, Jessie picked up on subtle changes in Marcus.

His shirt collar lay undone, and there was an unmistakable glow about him, a clear indication of the couple's recent escapades.

Jessie's mood soured further upon her realization.

Her voice was instantly laced with bitterness as she accused, "I'm here in pain, and you two are off enjoying yourselves, huh! Marcus, you've always played the role of the gentleman, but pouncing on Melissa the first chance you get-I never saw that coming!"

Marcus met her challenge with a steady gaze, his belief firm that anyone who crossed him, regardless of gender, deserved correction.

His reply was cool, almost detached. “Perhaps you'd prefer returning to the Greens?"

Jessie's defiance melted away at his words. Seeking refuge behind Melissa, her voice dropped to a whisper. “No, I don't want to go back. I'd rather stay here."

With Minnie securely in his arms, Marcus stroked the puppy's head, offering a gentle admonition. "Then let's avoid any further trouble, shall we?"

His concern for Minnie was unspoken, yet Melissa sensed his worry.

Marcus rarely let his emotions show, yet his actions spoke volumes of his protective nature.

Jessie's gaze shifted to Minnie, her envy unmistakable.

To think she was now second to a dog!

Yvonne burst from the house then, her childlike fascination with beauty drawing her to Jessie. "Jessie, are you okay? I've been so worried!" she said, her eyes reflecting genuine concern.

Jessie's spirits lifted at the kindness in Yvonne's words.

“Thank you, Yvonne. That's really sweet. Don't worry. I'm fine."

With dinner announced by Julie, the group moved toward the dining room, leaving Melissa to quietly ascend the stairs, seeking a moment to herself.

In the sanctuary of the bathroom, Melissa freshened up, her gaze meeting her own in the mirror.