Melissa had a soft spot for these pups.
Even though they didnât take them all, she still cared.
The assistant envied Melissa.
Back home, Matthew was strapped into his seat, unable to hold the puppy.
So Melissa cradled Minnie.
Matthew leaned in and they both showered Minnie with affection.
Minnie was exceptionally gentle, always nuzzling Melissaâs fingers.
It seemed Minnie fancied her new owner too.
Behind the wheel, Marcus stole a glance at Melissa through the rearview mirror.
âIf youâre so keen on pups, why not bring home one more?â
Melissa didnât look up but her eyes softened a tad.
âIâve got work and Matthew to tend to.
Iâm stretched thin as it is.
â
Marcus dropped the subject, steering them back home.
Meanwhile, the cook was busy whipping up a feast in the kitchen.
Hearing the car, the housekeeper dashed out, fussing over Matthewâs new furry friend before announcing, âDinner will be ready in half an hour, Mr.
and Mrs.
Fowler.
â
Marcus nodded.
Once the housekeeper left, Matthew darted to the lawn with Minnie.
Melissa glanced at Marcus.
Twilight blanketed the sky, the sun dipping low.
Leaning against the car, Marcus lit a smoke.
In the dimming light, his silhouette stretched, his profile striking against the dusk.
Melissa spoke softly.
âCould you tell the staff not to use that title?â
Marcusâ gaze flicked to Matthew briefly.
Then, shifting his focus back to Melissa, he replied, âIf they donât call you that, what should they call you? âMiss Brownâ? Do you want everyone knowing weâre living in sin?â
Suddenly, he pulled Melissa close, whispering, âMiss Brown, you surprise me with your candor.
I never saw it coming.
â
Today, Marcus had been needling Melissa non-stop.
She had a temper too.
She clenched her jaw and retorted, âYouâre no saint either.
You acted like itâs been ages since you last touched a woman.
â
Marcus released her grip.
With a cigarette dangling from his slim fingers, he took a slow drag, looking suave and debonair.
After a moment, he smirked.
âI havenât been with any woman in years.