He figured sheâd say no, seeing as she just ate.
But to his surprise, Melissa chirped, âSure thing! Itâs still early anyway.
What do you fancy to eat?â
Feeling pleased with her agreeableness, he gave her a smooch as a reward.
Finally, they headed back home.
Ma
rcus whipped up a bowl of seafood noodles for himself.
The delicious aroma made the kidsâ mouths water, so he whipped up a batch for them too.
He asked Melissa if she wanted some.
She fiddled with her phone, and then looked up and said, âIâm good!
Iâve had enough to eat today.
â
Marcus squatted down, giving her belly a gentle pat.
âNo pressure.
Eat if youâre hungry!â
âOh, alright, if you insist,â Melissa relented.
Marcus chuckled at her game of saying no but meaning yes.
Linking arms with him, Melissa headed towards the dining room and whispered, âGuess Iâm picking up your habits.
â
Hearing this, Marcus glanced at her, desire flickering in his eyes.
As night fell, the Lights in the villa gradually dimmed.
Marcus was in the shower.
Melissa, dressed in comfy PJs, lounged against the headboard, sorting through her phone.
Eventually, she hesitated, chewing on her lip before shooting a message to Albert.
âIt looks like Jessie might be heading overseas.
â
After hitting send, she set the phone aside.
Opening a drawer, she glanced at the transfer letter from Albert.
Sheâd made her decision to stay but hadnât discussed it with Marcus.
Not that heâd asked.
Was he just confident she wouldnât leave, orâ¦?
When the bathroom door creaked open, Marcus emerged, towel still dr@ped around his waist.
Spotting the lamp on and Melissa still awake, he dried his hair and settled beside her.
âWhyâre you still up? Are you waiting for me? Honey, remember, we have to abstain for the first trimester of your pregnancy!â
âIâm not waiting for you,â Melissa shot back, giving him a pointed Look.
Marcusâ heart melted at the sight of her flushed face.