"Mr. Thomas."
Melanie looked up in surprise as the man stepped into the house with rushed movements. Who did that? For a moment, she'd thought a thief was breaking in. He stopped short at the sight of her, blinking as if he wasn't expecting to see her there.
He stared at her for a beat, then let out a strained chuckle. "Melody? You're calling me Mr. Thomas now? What happened to Father?"
Melanie offered a tight, uncertain smile. "I don't remember much these days… so calling you that feels strange. Formal. Distant. But… I could try, I suppose."
She tilted her head, examining him more closely. "I thought you'd left for the office already. Why are you back? You look—" she paused, frowning "...a bit pale. Is everything alright?"
He waved a dismissive hand but didn't quite meet her eyes. "Huh? Ah, yes, yes. I came back because I forgot my medicine. Foolish of me. And now-" he touched his temple and exhaled, "...now my blood pressure's acting up. Fluctuating all over the place."
