Yet, Melissa moved on, unaffected.
Thomas attempted to offer solace.
âThese things take time.
Perhaps whatâs needed is a period of adjustment.
â
Weldon, frustration evident, gestured towards the exit.
âThree years have passed, and yet she remains unchanged! Her perspective is as limited as her motherâs.
What harm is there in being a mistress?
Why stir up drama, accusing me of deceitââ
Thomas cut him off, âBut the deceit was real.
â
Left without a response, Weldon fell silent.
Melissa stepped into the night alone, her spirits lower than before.
Marcus, now appearing more composed, was still in the lobby.
âs BunnyBookery
Upon noticing Melissa, he stood and offered, âLet me give you a lift.
â
Melissa gently refused, âA company car is waiting for me out there.
â
Under the glow of the streetlights, Marcusâ features were striking.
âIâve asked your driver to depart earlier.
â
âMarcus⦠youâ¦â
With a soft smile, Marcus placed his coat over her shoulders, suggesting, âThink of it as a walk for digestion.
Besides, the Japanese cuisine tonight was disappointing.
â
Perhaps in need of companionship, Melissa found herself accepting his offer.
The club was situated near a river, the night view Lending a serene backdrop to their silent promenade.
Marcus, a cigarette between his lips, glanced at her to gauge if she minded.
Melissa offered a slight smile in response.
Marcus lit his cigarette, the smoke curling into the night air.
Leaning against the railing, he broached the subject of Alanâs son.
âWhat are your thoughts on him?â
Melissa adjusted the coat dr@ped around her, the fabric carrying the distinct aroma of tobacco as well as Marcusâ cologne.
As her cheek grazed the collar, a subtle expression of longing emergedâ¦
Marcus regarded her in silence, taking in her delicate features, the fairness of her skin, and the grace of her neck.
He softly uttered her name, âMelissa.
â
Melissa gave a gentle âHmmâ in response, turning towards him to inquire, âWhy did you come here today?â
Marcus chose not to answer directly.