He leaned in and planted a kiss on her cheek, grinning. "That means you had a crush on me back then!"

Melissa didn't deny it. "Yes! I did kind of like you back then."

Marcus teased, “Well, I'll let it slide this time for crushing on me for so long. Oh, by the way, I'm starving. Let's grab a bite."

He figured she'd say no, seeing as she just ate.

But to his surprise, Melissa chirped, “Sure thing! It's still early anyway. What do you fancy to eat?"

Feeling pleased with her agreeableness, he gave her a smooch as a reward.

Finally, they headed back home. Marcus whipped up a bowl of seafood noodles for himself. The delicious aroma made the kids' mouths water, so he whipped up a batch for them too.

He asked Melissa if she wanted some.

She fiddled with her phone, and then looked up and said, “I'm good!

I've had enough to eat today."

Marcus squatted down, giving her belly a gentle pat.

“No pressure. Eat if you're hungry!"

“Oh, alright, if you insist," Melissa relented.

Marcus chuckled at her game of saying no but meaning yes.

Linking arms with him, Melissa headed towards the dining room and whispered, “Guess I'm picking up your habits."

Hearing this, Marcus glanced at her, desire flickering in his eyes.

As night fell, the Lights in the villa gradually dimmed.

Marcus was in the shower.

Melissa, dressed in comfy PJs, lounged against the headboard, sorting through her phone. Eventually, she hesitated, chewing on her lip before shooting a message to Albert. “It looks like Jessie might be heading overseas."

After hitting send, she set the phone aside.