He glanced at the elevator's floor number, and then leaned in, his voice husky. “Darling, you take my breath away!"

His words stirred something deep within her.

Unfortunately, they reached the ground floor, the driver waiting by the car. Marcus guided her, opened the door with flair, and planted a tender kiss.

The driver's eyes widened in surprise.

Had Melissa been with Marcus all day?

As the driver settled in, his legs felt like jelly...

At the airport.

Melissa led a line of about twenty Watson Group employees, all primed and serious, awaiting Paulina Watson, Albert's father's wife.

Paulina stepped off the plane, puzzled by Albert's absence. Her expression soured.

"Where's Albert? What's going on?"

With a calm smile, Melissa intervened, "Ma'am, I'm here to welcome you on behalf of Mr. Watson."

Paulina, ever haughty, eyed Melissa dismissively. "You're representing Albert? Melissa, only his wife should greet me on his behalf!"

Melissa looked down, murmuring, "But his wife's in the hospital. She can't make it."

“Enough excuses! Albert's ‘training’ you well!"

Paulina's displeasure was evident. "I've heard about your connection to him. You're in cahoots, aren't you? You've been helping Albert and that woman, am I right?"

Melissa appeared meek. “I wouldn't dare."

Paulina scoffed, "You wouldn't? I thought you feared nothing!"

She wanted to blow up but a confidant whispered to her, "She tied the knot with Mr. Fowler this morning! She's part of the Fowler family now."

Paulina was floored by the news and her composure faltered.

With a strained smile, she muttered, "Never mind! I'm here for Albert.