Chapter 3296: Chapter 3297

In a cold, distant tone, Marcus told Thomas, “Melissa and I aren’t married yet, so she won’t attend the Smith family’s condolences.

Plus, she’s too fragile to handle such things.

Please, Mr.

Smith, don’t push her.

”

Despite Thomas’ persistence, Marcus stood firm.

The final call came from Waylen, who got straight to the point.

“Marcus, what’s up with you? You can’t handle even Thomas? He just called me.

Listen, Melissa has nothing to do with the Smith family.

We can support her and Matthew on our own.

We won’t take a dime from the Smiths.

Your mom’s right.

The Smiths didn’t raise Melissa, so why should she go to Weldon’s funeral? This is just ridiculous!”

“I already told Thomas.

Yeah, Melissa isn’t going,” Marcus said into the phone.

He hung up, glancing at Melissa.

The traffic light ahead turned red.

Giving her hand a squeeze, he said, “My dad and I are on the same page.

You’re staying put.

Don’t sweat it.

As long as we stand firm, the Smiths won’t dare to stir trouble.

”

Melissa nodded silently.

Even though she seemed composed, Marcus sensed she needed space.

Back home, he bathed Minnie and checked Yvonne’s homework.

Minnie was so chubby that she now looked like a little French bulldog.

As Marcus bathed Minnie, she behaved well.

The kids stood by, fascinated.

“Dad, why does Minnie have these buttons on her belly? Can I poke them?” Matthew asked.

Marcus chuckled, letting Matthew touch Minnie’s belly.

Minnie’s expression was priceless.

Yvonne, sensing the scene, giggled.

Marcus encouraged her to go back to her piano practice while he dried Minnie’s fur, drowning out the noise.

Upstairs in the bedroom, Melissa sat on the balcony, gazing at the stars in the night sky.

She could hear the sounds from downstairs.

A shooting star streaked across the sky.

Warm arms enveloped her from behind.

She tensed slightly, and then turned to see Marcus.

He spoke softly.

“I thought I’d find a moment to come up and see you.

”

Melissa caressed his handsome face gently.

“I’m okay.

Hey Marcus, did you catch that shooting star just now?”

“I didn’t see it.

”

He moved closer, resting her head on his belly.

They both gazed up at the sky.