With one hand holding her delicate fingers, Marcus swirled his wine glass gently and suggested, “Let's chat in my room later."

Melissa understood it as Marcus offering his support.

She should've felt grateful but a heaviness lingered in her heart.

Things had been smooth sailing between them but this situation made it feel like they were striking a deal, somehow making their relationship less genuine.

As Marcus headed upstairs, he brought Matthew along.

“Time for bed, buddy!" he told the little boy.

Minnie trailed after them.

Alone at the table, Melissa gazed at the wine left in her glass, Marcus' favorite.

She drained it slowly, and then poured herself another glass.

Soon, she felt a pleasant buzz.

Checking on Yvonne in her room, Melissa found the girl lying with teary eyes. "Will Dad be okay?" Yvonne asked the same question again.

Turning down the bedside lamp, Melissa sat beside her, gently stroking her face.

“Yes, honey, your dad will be just fine," she reassured.

Yvonne bit her lip, firing off another question, “Are Mom and Dad going to divorce? Will Mom take me away like before?"

Melissa was taken aback and felt a pang of sympathy for the little one.

Truth be told, Shawn had crossed a line. If she were Janet, she'd find it hard to forgive him.

Yet, Melissa gently patted Yvonne's head and assured, "You don't have to leave here!"

At her tender age, Yvonne couldn't grasp Melissa's words fully.

But she trusted Melissa and found comfort in her presence.

Melissa stayed until Yvonne drifted into slumber. Returning to her bedroom, she found Marcus soothing Matthew. The little tyke was out like a Light in Marcus’ embrace.