16

"Can I go back to work, Marco?"

I had left my job at our company in preparation for taking on my father's position once he retired, assuming he would pass it down to me. However, now that I'm married to Marco, I felt the need to contribute and not stay idle at home.

Marco stopped eating and focused his gaze on me. Trying to mask my nervousness, I offered a smile.

"I feel restless doing nothing here. I believe it's time for me to return to work, maybe at my father's company."

Marco's jaw tensed upon hearing mention of my father, clearly unhappy about the connection I was making.

"I don't want you getting close to him. He might hurt you again," Marco responded, shaking his head and directing his attention back to his meal.

I'm grateful for his care, even though things are a bit unclear with his actions and mixed feelings towards me. It makes me happy that he's upfront about wanting me to be safe without any hidden agenda.

Although my father works in a different department, on separate f