James' eyes wavered with conflicting emotions.

With a boldness fueled by desperation, he gestured towards the woman nestled in Albert's arms. "If you've grown attached to her during those three years, why not make her your partner? Jessie is a wonderful woman."

A shadow passed over Albert's face, his features clouding at the mention of marriage.

Ignoring James' wild words, Albert descended the stairs, Jessie cradled in his arms, and settled her gently into the car.

While securing her seatbelt, her hand suddenly clasped his.

Assuming she had woken up, Albert was surprised by her murmured words, spoken as if in a dream. “Uncle Albert," she whispered, her eyes meeting his with a misty gaze.

Albert froze, unable to look away.

After a moment, Jessie's eyelids fluttered shut again as she murmured “It must be a dream. How could you come back when you're married?"

Albert felt a pang of sadness at her words.

His fingers trembled as he tenderly brushed her face.

He looked at her longingly.

Though he wanted her, he couldn't forget he was now married. It wasn't about being loyal to his wife, but feeling undeserving of Jessie's touch.

With a heavy heart, Albert withdrew his hand and closed the car door.

Taking Jessie to the familiar villa, he carried her upstairs with care.

He removed her shoes, wiped her face, hands, and even her feet with a towel before tucking her in. Heading to the living room, he resigned himself to spending the night there, wrestling with his conflicted emotions.

At the crack of dawn, the sweet trill of birdsong filled the air outside.

As Jessie stirred, her fingertips brushed against the soft pillow.

Abruptly, she opened her eyes.

Before her lay the familiar sight.

This was the very villa she had sold.