Matthew enthusiastically nodded.
âDadâs the one who said it.
He thinks I should have what the other kids do.
And he says you have to dress nice like other moms do.
â
Melissa sighed, thinking Matthew was oblivious to being manipulated.
But she was willing to indulge her son.
She slipped into a spring lilac wool dress paired with white stilettos.
She looked stunning.
Taking Matthew downstairs, they found Marcus lounging on the sofa, puffing on a cigarette mid-phone call.
Melissa sensed something was up since Marcusâ brow furrowed slightly, adding a touch of rugged charm.
Spotting Melissa and Matthew, Marcus stubbed out his cigarette.
After a few words on the phone, he hung up and stood.
âReady to roll?â
Melissa hesitated.
âIf youâre busy, I can take Matthew myself.
â
Marcus eyed her.
âWhat, donât you want to be seen with me? Are you worried Iâll embarrass you or that you wonât be able to find a new boyfriend with me around?â
Melissa was at a loss for words.
Matthew gripped Melissaâs hand, disappointment clouding his face.
Melissa tousled his hair.
She then looked up and met Marcusâ gaze.
âStop saying that in front of Matthew.
Itâs not what I meant.
â
âOh?â
Marcus drawled, âSo youâre saying you wonât find another guy? Fine, for Matthewâs sake, I wonât get involved with anyone new either.
But can you hold out?â
Melissa wasnât naive.
He was pushing her to make a choice in front of Matthew.
Normally, sheâd brush off Marcusâ antics but, with Matthew watching her eagerly, afraid she was going to replace his dad, she couldnât ignore it.
Melissa let out a soft sigh.
âOkay.
â
Marcus, all serious, said, âI expect you to stick to your word, Miss Brown.
â
Then, grabbing Matthewâs hand, Marcus announced, âHop in the car.
Weâre off to pick up a pup.
â
With the excitement of the puppy, Matthew quickly forgot about everything else, settling into the back seat with glee.
Marcus grabbed the car door but not before giving Melissaâs dress a lingering glance, murmuring, âYou look great in that.
â
Melissa brushed him off, slipping into the car, but Marcusâ touch sent a jolt through her.