Jealousy flared in her eyes.

Why did Kiana get a pet dog when she couldn't have one?!

Why was Kiana enjoying story time with Jessie while she was left out?!

Yet, she was determined to have both a pet dog and Jessie's affection soon enough!

Jeslyn then looked up at Albert... He knew his daughter so well, understanding her thoughts with just a glance. He set his glass aside, caressing her head softly.

Jeslyn took this as her father's assent.

Snuggling up to Albert, she fixed her gaze on Jessie... Meanwhile, she silently vowed to win over Jessie in time.

The evening air grew chilly.

The birds and bugs in the courtyard quieted down as exhaustion settled over the three kids. But the grown-ups were still buzzing with energy. Marcus seemed to be the only one genuinely enjoying himself.

The others were a mixed bag of emotions.

Melissa didn't want to leave Jessie's side, while Jessie was counting down the seconds until she could escape the awkwardness.

And Albert? Well, he wasn't exactly a people person.

Finally, Albert stood up and announced, “It's time for Jeslyn to go to bed. We're taking off. Thanks for the dinner."

His driver had been patiently waiting by the entrance.

Before they left, Albert turned to Jessie with a polite offer. “Do you need a ride? Driving after drinking isn't the smartest move."

Marcus initially volunteered to drive Jessie home, but then backtracked, saying, "Oops, I forgot I'm a bit tipsy myself."

With a faint smile, Albert insisted, "Let me give you a lift, Miss Green."

He said it all polite-like, as if they'd never crossed paths before.

Jessie knew refusing might make her seem uptight, but she declined anyway. "That's very kind of you, Mr. Waston, but I'll grab a cab!"

With Jeslyn in his arms, Albert stood at the entrance, the Light casting a handsome glow over him.