Despite the chaos outside, he directed his frustration at his former secretary. He fixed her with a stern gaze. “What's the deal with Jessie's fiance? Why is the engagement off?"

Melissa revealed the truth. ler fiance proposed an open marriage, which Jessie couldn't accept “Open marriage?! An open marriage?!"

Albert repeated, his voice escalating with each utterance. Finally, he exploded, “What nonsense! Who does he think he is?"

Melissa retorted defensively, “Honestly, you weren't any better to Jessie. At least her fiance was upfront about his intentions before the wedding and she had a chance to break it off."

Albert glared at Melissa, his anger palpable. "You seem determined to make matters worse. Aren't you worried I'll send you packing?"

Melissa replied respectfully, “Jessie mentioned that if you took it out on me, she'd transfer ownership of the villa to me."

Albert was incensed. "Since when did you two become so chummy?"

Melissa remained silent.

After a prolonged silence, she spoke softly. "Mr. Watson, why not do right by her and yourself? It's clear you're fond of her."

Albert didn't directly address Melissa's suggestion.

Instead, he retrieved a cigarette, lighting it with deliberate slowness. He smoked more than half of it in silence.

How could he explain this to Melissa? He was almost two decades older than Jessie. Despite his current appearance of youth and success, he feared he might become a regretful old man in the near future.

Truth be told, Albert had once entertained thoughts of marrying Jessie.

Yet, every time he contemplated her youthful, sleeping visage, he hesitated.

Melissa averted her gaze, murmuring, "Mr. Watson, it's just your insecurities talking. It's not your age that makes you feel undeserving, but her superiority. She's got a top-notch background, stunning looks, and an Ivy League education. Even without a job, she has everything you once lacked, leaving you feeling inferior...

Albert's hand holding the cigarette twitched from the heat.

He stared at Melissa intently.

With a wry smile, Melissa continued, “Perhaps I can relate because I come from a similar background just as yours."

Having once been his secretary, she was well acquainted with his circle and felt entitled to speak her mind.

In a hushed tone, Melissa added, "You haven't signed any legal documents yet, Mr. Watson. You still have a chance to back out. You might disappoint her, but if you marry her without love, you'll hurt her even more."