These words felt like a knife through his heart.

This time, when she left, he didn't stop her. He just returned to his seat and ate slowly. He finished everything, something unusual as Jessie usually devoured most of their meals together.

His phone buzzed on the table. It was Daisy calling.

Albert ignored it.

Daisy texted him. "I have a doctor's appointment tomorrow for the prenatal check-up. Can you come with me, Albert?"

Albert powered off his phone without a second thought.

*

Jessie left the restaurant and wandered the streets, Lost in thought.

Suddenly, she felt a strong urge to see Melissa.

With Melissa, she could speak her mind without holding back.

She rang up Melissa. When she answered, Jessie avoided mentioning Albert and said, "Melissa, I'm thinking of selling the hotel and taking my mom abroad. Maybe she'll do better in a new place."

Melissa wasn't surprised by her decision.

Jessie wasn't cut out for running a business. It made more sense for her to sell up than to keep struggling with the hotel. But Melissa wasn't keen on her leaving the country.

Jessie cried, "I'll be back in a year or two! I'm still young. I might even want to settle down when I return! I can't be alone forever!"

After a moment's pause, Melissa gently asked, "You saw Mr. Waston, didn't you?"

Jessie stayed silent.

Eventually, she muttered, “Yeah! I can't stand him!"

Melissa sympathized with Jessie, so she invited her out for dinner.

Jessie wanted a drink but, knowing Melissa was pregnant, she booked a table at a restaurant they frequented instead.

After the meal, Jessie felt a lot better.