Sylvia sighed.
âMelissa, the timing is not ideal.
â
Expanding on her point, she added, âMr.
Fowler, truth be told, is not known for his amiable temperament.
Anyone whoâs interacted with him can attest to his challenging nature.
I believe heâs resolved in his decision.
â
Considering their shared womanhood, Sylvia desired the best for Melissa.
Offering a pragmatic suggestion, she stated, âMr.
Fowler is open to compensation.
I believe, within reasonable limits, he would acknowledge it.
â
Sylvia implied monetary recompense.
For instance, if Melissa sought tens or even hundreds of millions of dollars, Marcus would likely comply.
It was Sylviaâs way of extending kindness.
Melissa comprehended the situation well, recognizing the chaos in her life.
Despite her affinity for wealth, accepting money from Marcus meant she could no longer appear before him.
Uttering the words, âMarcus, I want to be with you,â would become an impossibility for her.
Melissaâs nose twitched, betraying her emotions.
Grateful, she murmured her thanks to Sylvia before rising.
The hospital gown still dr@ped loosely on Melissaâs slender frame.
Sylvia discerned Melissaâs decision.
A soft sigh escaped Sylviaâs lips as she considered Melissa a bit naive.
Despite recognizing the odds, Melissa neglected to strategize for herself.
If not love, what drove her actions?
Despite seeing it as regrettable, Sylvia respected Melissaâs autonomy.
âIâm heading back to the hospital,â Melissa announced in a hushed tone.
Sylvia suggested arranging a car for Melissa, but she declined, asserting, âIâll take a bus back.
â
Concerned for Melissa, Sylvia offered, âIâll get you a cab.
â
Amidst their conversation, a soft female voice inquired, âSylvia.
Is this Melissa?â
Sylvia pivoted to face Rena, who was there for the shareholdersâ meeting.
Rena, impeccably attired in a knee-length black business dress, had her long brown hair elegantly tied up.
An emerald ring adorned her fingers, a token of love from Waylen on their 30th anniversary, acquired at auction the previous year.
Rena met Melissaâs gaze.
Uneasiness settled over Melissa; after all, Rena was Marcusâ mother.
The hospital gown added to her discomfort.
Detecting Melissaâs discomfort, Rena redirected her attention and spoke up with a smile.
âMelissa, Iâd like a moment with you.
Are you available?â