Albert's gaze bore into Melissa's, his eyes holding depths of emotion.

"I'm not marrying for love. It's a connection through marriage with another family, Melissa," he articulated each word deliberately.

"You're intimately familiar with the Waston Group. This union could preemptively quell internal discord. Why shouldn't I pursue it?"

“But, Mr. Watson, are you happy?"

The Waston Group, the influence... Are those truly your desires?

Do you find yourself longing for that version of yourself on the racetrack when you are alone on your own?"

Albert's eyes never wavered from Melissa's. He regarded this young woman as both a subordinate, a partner in crime, and a family of sorts. His eyes were bloodshot from a sleepless night, their intensity now heightened, lending a more ominous aura.

“Melissa, are you fully aware of what you're saying?"

Melissa's lips pressed together firmly, but she mustered the courage to reply, "I merely wish for you not to overlook your chance at genuine happiness. You're not getting any younger, and opportunities to find your true love in the future are scarce. It's not too late to reconsider this."

Her voice quivered as she spoke the final words.

Albert's stare bore into her, an intensity she had never experienced before.

He glared at her as if wanting to devour her. Yet, Melissa remained steadfast. She said what she had to say and it felt as though she had unburdened herself, regardless of the consequences.

However, in the end, Albert murmured slowly, “Melissa, what you see is just a fraction of who I am. The man I once was on the racetrack is long gone. People grow, and so have I."

With that, he turned and strode past Melissa, leaving her standing in silence.

"Melissa," a gentle voice called out.

Startled, Melissa looked up to see Helen, Albert's mother, approaching.

Albert's wedding had taken place that day, and Helen, despite in her 60s, exuded grace and elegance.

“Thank you for coming," Helen began softly. "As a mother, my greatest wish is for my son's happiness. Even though he's well into his 40s and capable of making his own decisions, he's always my boy. Would it be possible for me to meet Jessie?"

Melissa regained her composure and whispered, "She might be in tears."

Afterward, Melissa added a pertinent observation, "Mr. Waston has shown her kindness over the past few years, almost spoiling her.