Marcus didn't push it.

With a hand in his pocket, Marcus added, “As long as you're cool with it, Mr. Waston."

As the elevator arrived, Albert stepped in, and the doors slid shut.

He was alone in the lift, staring at his reflection in the mirror.

He thought he'd been firm in turning down Marcus's offer, but seeing himself now, he realized he was anything but sure.

Suddenly, he despised himself.

He envied Marcus. Marcus and Melissa hit a rough patch once. Years later when fate brought them together again, Marcus had swiftly ended things with his new girl and went after Melissa again.

Albert was older and wiser than Marcus.

But he didn't have Marcus’ courage.

As the elevator reached the ground floor, Albert prepared to step out when a familiar scent hit his nostrils.

He couldn't help but Look up.

It was Jessie.

She seemed a bit sun-kissed but her complexion was visibly improved and her skin was radiant and flawless.

Clearly, she was taken aback too. After a moment of daze, she regained composure and gave him a slight nod. She had no intention of chatting.

Albert's expression was unreadable.

After a long pause, Jessie finally spoke up. "Are you getting off or what?"

Albert looked pained. He exited the elevator, brushing past her.

Their bodies barely grazed each other. In a low voice only she could hear, he uttered a single word.

"Sorry!"

After more than six months apart, that was all he could manage.