To her, it was just a normal exchange between partners. She straightened his shirt. "Be back soon.”

Marcus' gaze lingered on her for a moment.

Melissa went to settle Kiana. The little one agreed to sleep but insisted on snuggling Minnie first.

Melissa found it amusing but relented.

As Melissa and Kiana headed upstairs, Marcus fetched a cigarette, lighting it with a sigh.

He had smoked a lot years back.

With Kiana around now, he'd cut down. But sometimes, the craving won.

Exhaling a wisp of smoke, he glanced at the second floor.

Thinking of his family, Marcus chuckled softly, stubbing out the cigarette.

He hopped into his sleek black car and sped off.

Melissa, mot having slept well for days, woke up late in the afternoon at six thirty.

She jolted awake, finding herself alone.

Even the dog was nowhere to be seen.

She rubbed her eyes, mumbling, "Why did I sleep so long?"

Suddenly, she heard bustling footsteps. It was Kiana and Minnie.

Kiana, in her floral dress, looked wide awake as she clutched Minnie.

“Jeslyn's here for my dog!"

Melissa blinked in confusion.

Hands on her hips, Kiana spoke up. “Her dad brought her for dinner but I think she just wants Minnie."

Melissa sat up, patting Kiana's cheek. "They're guests, honey."