There were a few wrinkles around his eyes, but otherwise, he Looked as youthful as ever.

He fixed his gaze on Jessie and asked out of the blue, “You still holding onto that grudge after all these years?"

Melissa's heart skipped a beat at his words.

Jessie, annoyed, shot back, “Don't flatter yourself, Mr. Waston!"

Albert held her gaze for a moment.

But then he stepped aside to let her pass.

Albert remained still until Jessie had walked a few steps away. The little girl, snug against his shoulder, gripped him tightly. Her expression was serene, though Jeslyn was secretly thrilled.

Melissa turned towards Marcus and inquired, “That was intentional, wasn't it?"

Marcus, stroking his chin, chuckled. "Honestly, even after all these years, Jessie remains the same. She used to be easily swayed by Albert, and now someone else has pinpointed her vulnerability! The kid really does adore her."

Hearing Marcus' words, Melissa sighed and made her way to the yard.

A black Rolls-Royce pulled up in the parking area. The driver opened the back door, allowing Albert to settle Jeslyn into her seat. Once seated, the girl looked at Jessie and requested, "Sit with me, Jessie."

Jessie declined gently. "Thank you. But you go ahead first."

Albert shot her a look before climbing into the car. Jessie followed suit and found a seat for herself.

It wasn't until she was inside that she noticed their proximity.

Albert was seated right beside her.

The car's confined space allowed her to catch his scent.

Mixed in the air were the faint smells of cigarette smoke and his refreshing aftershave.

That was the scent to which she had once been addicted!

Just like old times. Jessie recalled how, during their time together, she'd nuzzle his neck like a puppy, causing him to itch. His response was often to kiss her, a playful form of ‘punishment.'

Those memories stirred emotions in Jessie, and her eyes began to water.