Shawn skulked off without a word, feeling defeated.

Melissa chimed in to Julie, "It's good that Shawn's got drive."

Julie hesitated, biting back her words.

She didn't want to burden Melissa anymore. With Melissa doing well and about to tie the knot with Marcus, it didn't feel right for Shawn to be dependent. Julie contemplated sending her rebellious son back to their hometown to make his own living.

Right then, Marcus interjected casually, "Melissa's spot on.

Ambition's a good thing."

Marcus dabbed his lips with a napkin, grinning as he rose from his seat. Leaning in, he planted a kiss on Melissa's cheek. “I'll be waiting in the car. Are you ready to get married?"

Get married? Seriously? Melissa blinked, taken aback.

Seeing her reaction, Marcus grinned, asking, "What's up? Did you forget agreeing to marry me last night?"

Melissa glanced at the glittering ring on her finger, unsure.

Marcus, always knowing how to push her buttons, smirked. “Are you regretting it already?"

Wary of his manipulative ways, Melissa hesitated before conceding, “Fine, okay!"

With a scoff, Marcus teased, “You're saying that because you're under duress, I bet?"

Melissa, avoiding his gaze, continued with her breakfast, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment.

Marcus studied her intently as he tried to read her thoughts.

Finally, he said casually, "Get changed after breakfast."

With that, Marcus left the room, presumably heading to the car.

Finishing her milk, Melissa pondered Marcus’ question.

Despite their past animosity, time had seemed to soften their edges.

And it was all because they did care about each other after all.