Marcus leaned against the headboard, his shirt half-off, looking mighty fine.

He was oozing sexiness.

With one hand on Melissa's shoulder, he held a cigarette in the other. After a few drags, he put it out and turned to her, quiet as a mouse.

She was out cold!

Her face was so serene and her lips looked so inviting.

Marcus couldn't resist touching her gently.

Just then, Melissa blinked awake. "What time is it?" she asked.

Grinning, Marcus replied, “Almost eight."

Melissa shot up, thinking of the kids and Elsie. "Why didn't you wake me?" she demanded, reaching for her clothes.

But Marcus halted her. "Chill! I'll whip up something for us."

Melissa opened her mouth but Marcus beat her to it. "Got something to say about Jessie, right? We'll talk later over our meal."

Melissa stared, baffled.

With a smirk, Marcus teased, “What? Do you want more? Sorry, can't perform miracles on an empty tank."

Fed up, Melissa hurled a pillow at him. Seizing the chance, Marcus pulled her close.

Wrapping her in his arms, he kissed her deeply, and then whispered, "Be a good girl for me, alright?"

Melissa didn't put up a fight after that.

In high spirits, Marcus headed to the kitchen. Before long, he announced to Melissa that food was served.

They sat down together at the table and dug in.

Mid-meal, Melissa geared up to bring up the Elsie situation. But Marcus beat her to it. "This is our place and you're the boss.

There's no need to ask me for permission," he said casually.