He waved and headed inside. Navigating the tables, he spotted Jessie.

Dressed in business attire, she sat quietly.

In front of her, there was just a modest portion of food.

It had been ages since they'd last crossed paths.

She seemed more grown-up now, though a hint of weariness lingered on her face.

When the meal arrived, she pulled her hair back and ate in silence.

She nibbled on her food, not because she feared gaining weight, but because she had no appetite.

She'd shed quite a few pounds.

Albert stood there, silently observing her. He knew he ought to make a swift exit; he'd promised not to disrupt her peace. But he found himself rooted to the spot.

Abruptly, Jessie halted her meal.

From a few meters away, Albert watched as two tears trickled down her cheeks.

Swiftly, she dabbed at her face with a tissue, likely trying to keep her composure.

Albert's hands trembled in his pockets.

He'd led a life of autonomy, never second-guessing his decisions. But this time, he felt genuine remorse.

Did the well-being of thousands of employees really matter?

Sure, without jobs from the Waston Group, they'd find other means to get by.

But since losing Albert, Jessie hadn't known happiness, never cracked a smile, always in tears.

Albert hadn't reached out because he couldn't make her a promise now.

As he prepared to depart, Jessie suddenly lifted her gaze, meeting his with reddened eyes.

She was taken aback by the sight of him.