He longed to rectify past regrets, to envelop her in care and devotion, to ensure she felt utterly loved.

Touched by his sincerity, Melissa felt a swell of emotion.

In a moment of raw sentiment, Marcus captured her lips, his urgency clear. "Talk to me, please."

With feigned innocence, Melissa challenged, "What would you like me to say?"

“Tell me you love me as well," Marcus’ voice came, rough around the edges.

Melissa initially thought to tease him, but as she met his gaze, she found herself lost in it. It took her a moment before she whispered, “I love you too, Marcus."

He then queried, "Do you think I'm handsome?"

A bit lost for words, Melissa shifted gears abruptly. "Shouldn't we be on our way to the hospital?"

Arriving at the hospital, Melissa did a blood test, and then they eagerly waited for the results. The test confirmed her pregnancy.

Marcus examined the results intently before turning to Melissa with conviction. “It's going to be a girl! We're having a daughter!"

"The baby is too young to determine its sex," the doctor corrected him with a smile.

Undeterred, Marcus pocketed the printout, asserting, "She will be a girl."

As they rode the elevator, Marcus was already pondering names for their child while Melissa gently touched her belly, her face a canvas of contemplation. Previously, Melissa had endeavored to establish herself as competent and capable, seeking Marcus’ approval. Yet, as their bond deepened, her perspective shifted. Mutual sacrifice became their testament to family.

Releasing the Fowler Group from his grip was unthinkable for Marcus.

Thus, Melissa resolved to prioritize their family's wellbeing above all.

Once, Albert's offer had been alluring, promising a radically different life in Heron. Now, those prospects held no allure for Melissa.

She kept these reflections to herself, not wishing to burden Marcus.

As the elevator reached the lobby, they prepared to exit.

There, in the doorway, stood Thomas, the man they'd spoken with earlier. His suit hung on a frame thinned by recent stress, a visible toll of his responsibilities within the Smith family.

Their eyes connected as the elevator doors glided open.