Marcus always had a knack for teasing Melissa.

He couldn't resist adding, "You really don't have to seduce me and everything just to get me on board; not that I mind your approach though."

"Cut it out, Marcus!" Melissa blurted out, her cheeks flushing.

With a gentle smile, Marcus pulled out an envelope Melissa had brought. "Guess what? Albert came to me the other day!"

Men and their smoking habits during business talk...

Marcus didn't light up, though; instead, he just twirled the cigarette.

"He's keen on teaming up," Marcus continued.

Melissa was taken aback. "Mr. Watson wants to partner with you?"

Given the Summit Ltd mess, Waston Group and Fowler Group had been at odds, there had been no business between them ever since, just fierce competition. Now, they were talking cooperation?

Lounging back, Marcus smirked. "I'm his last shot. After Jessie refused his help, who else does Albert have?"

Setting down her fork, Melissa asked, “Are you going to do it?"

Marcus shot back, “Why not? Albert's offering great terms. Plus, you're tight with Jessie, right? Aren't you happy I'm stepping in to help?"

Melissa couldn't have been happier.

Yet, she couldn't shake off the memory of past clashes with Marcus because of Waston Group, and now...

Albert was extending an olive branch to Marcus, which somehow left her in an awkward situation.

Her emotions were all over the place.

Marcus wasn't oblivious; he sensed something was bothering Melissa.

Taking her hand, he asked softly, “Are you upset with me?"

“Absolutely not!"

Melissa spoke honestly. “I'm just taken aback and suddenly reminiscing about the past! Marcus, sometimes I feel like... there's a huge gap between us. No matter how hard I try, I'll never measure up to you, I-"