Marcusâ glance towards Melissa carried an unspoken commentary on the dayâs events before he inquired about Jessieâs whereabouts.
Their conversation was interrupted as Shawn and Janet arrived, Jessie in tow, looking notably downcast.
Shawn Launched into an explanation.
âI came by earlier and saw Jessie and the puppy in a scuffle.
Jessie got bitten, so we rushed her to the hospital.
â
Shawnâs recounting carried a mix of excitement and disbelief.
âThe doctor ordered seven shots right away!
Sheâs still pale.
I doubt sheâll mess with a puppy again.
â
Janetâs elbow nudged Shawn gently, her whisper meant to temper his enthusiasm.
âRemember, Jessie comes from a wealthy family and is an important friend to Melissa.
Letâs not cause any discomfort.
â
Shawnâs sheepish grin acknowledged the reprimand.
Meanwhile, Jessie, nursing a sore arm from her vaccinations, sensed an undercurrent of tension.
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Despite Melissaâs effort to maintain normalcy, Jessie picked up on subtle changes in Marcus.
His shirt collar lay undone, and there was an unmistakable glow about him, a clear indication of the coupleâs recent escapades.
Jessieâs mood soured further upon her realization.
Her voice was instantly laced with bitterness as she accused, âIâm here in pain, and you two are off enjoying yourselves, huh! Marcus, youâve always played the role of the gentleman, but pouncing on Melissa the first chance you get-I never saw that coming!â
Marcus met her challenge with a steady gaze, his belief firm that anyone who crossed him, regardless of gender, deserved correction.
His reply was cool, almost detached.
âPerhaps youâd prefer returning to the Greens?â
Jessieâs defiance melted away at his words.
Seeking refuge behind Melissa, her voice dropped to a whisper.
âNo, I donât want to go back.
Iâd rather stay here.
â
With Minnie securely in his arms, Marcus stroked the puppyâs head, offering a gentle admonition.
âThen letâs avoid any further trouble, shall we?â
His concern for Minnie was unspoken, yet Melissa sensed his worry.
Marcus rarely let his emotions show, yet his actions spoke volumes of his protective nature.
Jessieâs gaze shifted to Minnie, her envy unmistakable.
To think she was now second to a dog!
Yvonne burst from the house then, her childlike fascination with beauty drawing her to Jessie.
âJessie, are you okay? Iâve been so worried!â she said, her eyes reflecting genuine concern.
Jessieâs spirits lifted at the kindness in Yvonneâs words.