He chuckled. "Restraint isn't in my vocabulary."

With a grin, he led her back to the bed, where the mattress offered its familiar softness, and their connection felt distinctly different.

They surrendered to passion once more, and when Melissa stirred at nine in the morning, she shielded her eyes from the sunlight, regretting her agreement to indulge him again.

After freshening up and grabbing breakfast, Melissa hurried to the hospital, finding Jessie engrossed in playtime with Jeslyn, seemingly avoiding Albert. Melissa smiled at the sight.

Alexis was also present, her sharp tongue as biting as ever.