Frozen in the doorway, Melissa forgot to change her shoes as she observed the scene.
Julie spotted her and welcomed her with a smile.
âMr.
Fowler arrived early and has been lending a hand in the kitchen.
Can you imagine? A CEO helping me cook! Wash your hands and go check on Matthew.
Heâs asleep.
Dinner will be ready soon.
â
Marcus smiled warmly, addressing Julie, âYou can just call me Marcus.
â
Julie hesitated, feeling unsure about using such an intimate form of address given Marcusâ prestigious status.
Marcus didnât insist.
Turning to Melissa, he seemed at ease.
âMatthew played until he wore himself out! Iâll bathe him when he wakes up, and then Iâll head out.
Is that alright?â
Marcus had a sensible request, so Melissa couldnât say no.
They just had s@x last night, though.
And that left her feeling kind of awkward.
Putting on her indoor shoes, Melissa headed for the bedroom.
âIâll go check on Matthew,â she said.
Passing the dining table, she avoided eye contact with Marcus.
Inside the bedroom, she realized her heart was racing with anxiety.
Meanwhile, Matthew was out cold asleep on the bed.
Sitting beside him, Melissa started to relax a little.
Then, Marcus opened the door and barged in.
Melissa wanted to speak up but stayed quiet, fearing another argument.
She did not want this especially in front of Julie and Matthew.
Marcus approached her.
He leaned in close, almost touching her.
But instead, he gently stroked Matthewâs face.
Occasionally, his slender fingers would brush against hers.
Surprised, Melissa thought about pulling away.
But Marcus didnât resist.
Whispering in her ear, he said, âLast night was fun, right? Why are you looking so timid now?â
Melissa was speechless.
âAnd you definitely werenât shy last night!â Marcus added.
Instantly, Melissa blushed.
She wasnât backing down.
âIt was just a one night thing; adults do it all the time! Right, Mr.
Fowler?â she shot back.