Rising to his feet, Shawn interjected, "You folks carry on. I'll keep watch at the door."

With his departure, the echo of the closing door resonated.

Marcus settled back against the bed, a faint smile gracing his handsome features. “During our gatherings, if ladies are present, we steer clear of such personal matters. But in all-male company, boundaries tend to blur. Besides, rumors concerning Albert's family affairs are rife, known to many. In Heron, they skirt around the topic out of respect. Yet here in Duefron, such matters serve as fodder for amusement."

Melissa frowned. “Are you seriously discussing this?"

Marcus chuckled. "Successful men are just like everyone else! Think they're all saints? Men gossip too. They're fascinated by sensual topics and the Like."

Melissa wore a slight frown. Marcus reached out, tenderly patting her hand.

"My dear, consider yourself lucky to have a steadfast man like me by your side!"

Melissa seized his hand, giving it a playful nip. “I might need to rethink that assessment!"

Marcus erupted in laughter.

Once discharged from the hospital, Marcus required some time to recuperate at home.

Eager to pitch in, Melissa offered to assist him, but Waylen and Rena refused to let her overexert herself, fearing she'd strain herself.

Thus, Waylen had to step in and overlook the Fowler Group in Marcus, while Rena made visits to Marcus and absence, frequent Melissa, occasionally bringing along supplements for them. They found reliable assistance in managing the household and caring for the children.

Initially, Melissa anticipated challenges during Marcus' temporary blindness, but to her astonishment, his vision fully returned in less than two weeks.

On that particular night, as the moon descended slowly, Melissa tucked the children into bed. Marcus had drifted off to sleep in the rocking chair. Upon awakening, he was met with a clear sight.

In disbelief, he reached out, finding everything startlingly sharp.

Relaxing in his chair, Marcus felt an overwhelming sense of contentment. Footsteps approached the master bedroom door, his heightened hearing picking up the voices of Melissa and Minnie.

Minnie bounded in first, eager for affection.

Marcus scooped up the furry companion, stroking her belly.

Turning his attention to the door, he inquired softly, “Did you feed her?"

Melissa paused, gazing at Marcus before squatting beside him, her touch gentle as she caressed his knee. "Feeling better today? Any improvement in your sight?"