Sylvia, though not privy to the specifics of their situation, had a good idea about what had transpired.
She knew Marcus all too well.
He was a man of wealth and pride, now deeply humiliated by almost being deceived and rejected by a young girl.
But it was clear he wasnât over Melissa.
If Marcus had truly moved on from Melissa, why would he be up there, smoking all night and battling a fever?
Sylvia wore a gentle smile and patted Melissaâs shoulder.
âLook, Mr.
Fowler and I are two different people.
Hey, we havenât caught up in so long.
Donât you have any stories for me? Iâve been driving all night and now I have to attend to Mr.
Fowler during the day.
Melissa, you seem to know this place well.
Could you give me some advice?â
Melissa found it hard to say no.
Talking wasnât her strong suit, especially with someone as experienced in the workplace as Sylvia.
Before she knew it, Sylvia had guided her towards the elevator.
They chatted and laughed on the way up.
Sylvia, being a mother, could tell Melissa was struggling.
To her, Melissa seemed naively adorable.
Sylvia thought that if only Melissa were a bit savvier, she could have a much better life, especially with someone like Marcus.
She then heaved a quiet sigh.
Soon, they were at the top floor.
Melissa hesitated at the door, whispering to Sylvia, âThe wonton soup is $12.
With packaging and delivery, itâs $15.
â
Within seconds, Sylvia was already using her room key card.
She responded casually, âOh, I left my phone and wallet inside.
Come in with me to get the money.
â
Melissaâs voice was low as she replied, âIâll just wait here at the door.
â
Sylvia grinned.
âYouâre avoiding Mr.
Fowler, right? Heâs sick, running a high fever.
I touched his forehead.
His body temp must be at least 39 degrees.
The medical facilities here arenât great.
What if the fever affects his brain? Heâs not married and doesnât have kids yet.
â
Melissa was at a loss for words at this point.
âJust come in.
Heâs asleep.
â
With Little choice, Melissa followed Sylvia inside.
The suite was as opulent as she had imagined.
But upon entering, she was greeted by the smell of cigarettes laced with a masculine scent.
It was unmistakably Marcus.
The familiar scent stirred something in Melissa, making her want to cry.
Melissa felt a wave of embarrassment.
Sylvia handed her some change and said, âDonât you want to see Mr.
Fowler? If Iâm not mistaken, you have feelings for him too.
Even if you donât, youâre kind-hearted.
Heâs always shown kindness to you.
Iâve never seen him care for any girl as much as he does for you.
â
Those words came from the bottom of her heart.