The meal rolled along without a hitch.

Afterwards, Waylen and Rena had a chat planned with their son.

Since Janet had to clock in for work later, she exchanged a few words with Yvonne and took off. Shawn rushed to catch up, eager to give her a lift to her workplace.

But Janet wasn't ready to forgive him yet, refusing his offer to drive her.

Left with no choice, Shawn trailed Janet to the villa's gate. He watched her board a bus at the stop, feeling all flustered on the way back.

Once Janet was out of sight, Shawn decided he'd leave after checking on his daughter, not wanting to take any cues from his mom.

As Shawn stepped through the intricately carved black gate, he came across Melissa.

Shawn was taken aback. “What are you doing here, Melissa? It's scorching out. What if you get sunburnt? Marcus must be worried sick.”

Melissa grinned. “Oh, it's no biggie."

They strolled and talked.

Then Melissa asked, “How come you and Marcus are suddenly tight? He handed you twenty million bucks without blinking. He doesn't dole out favors like that."

Shawn got her drift.

Sweat beaded on his brow. He'd been feeling uneasy for a while.

Finally, he halted and confessed quietly, "Melissa, it's all my fault.

I'm not mad at Marcus, really. Even without that woman, I'd still be trapped one way or another. Even though Janet barely speaks to me now, she's got a life and she's happy. Yvonne and my mom are also living well. What more could I ask for in life? I'm genuinely turning over a new leaf. As long as Janet's willing, I'll treat her right for life."

Melissa stayed silent, taking it all in.

Eventually, she didn't utter a word but walked alongside Shawn back to the villa.

Marcus lingered by the doorway.

Melissa glanced at Marcus, and then at Shawn. “You better stick to your word."

“No more fooling around. I'll stand by Janet. If I slip up again, I'll be utterly ashamed."