Jessie reentered the villa, her face flushing upon seeing Albert's composed expression. In contrast to her own unease, Albert remained remarkably calm. He set aside the newspaper he was reading and suggested, "Let's eat first.”

Jessie refused to eat, stating, “I'm here to teach."

Albert gestured towards Elsie, indicating, “She will eat with us.

What are you thinking about?"

Having wiped away her tears earlier, Jeslyn grasped Jessie's arm and whispered softly, "I want to sit next to Miss Green. I will eat up everything in my plate today."

Albert took his seat at the table.

As everyone settled in, Albert unfastened the diamond cufflinks on his sleeves and rolled them up, a familiar gesture to Jessie. With her emotions stirred, she lowered her head to conceal her feelings.

Elsie brought out four dishes, including two appetizers and a soup, and joined them at the table.

Albert served Jeslyn a bowl of soup and then, after a moment's thought, also served one for Jessie. He politely offered, "Miss Green, have a bowl of soup too. Elsie has been preparing it all afternoon."

The soup happened to be Jessie's favorite.

Caught in a dream, Jessie was startled by Albert's gentle voice. He encouraged, "Please, drink some. It's good for your health."

Since Jessie opted to stay, she felt it was inappropriate to engage in another conflict.

She took a few silent sips before setting down her spoon. Albert remained silent, saying nothing further.

In contrast to the tense atmosphere among the adults, Jeslyn appeared to be in high spirits. Her feet were no longer numb, and she displayed a newfound resilience. She happily consumed two bowls of soup and everything in her plate, even the broccoli, her belly now comfortably full and rounded.

After dinner, Jessie assumed it was time to begin their lesson, but Jeslyn insisted on taking Jessie to her room.

Once there, Jeslyn promptly laid down on the bed and fell asleep.

Standing beside the bed, Jessie observed Jeslyn, who seemed remarkably adept at eating and sleeping. Jessie couldn't help but wonder if she was simply here to babysit Jeslyn.

Reflecting on her decision to stay, Jessie couldn't shake the feeling that she had been too soft-hearted. Jeslyn appeared to be much more cunning than Kiana.

With a casual gesture, Jessie tucked Jeslyn in before turning to find a book to read. However, her plans were interrupted by the appearance of Albert at the door.

He entered the room and leaned over slightly to gaze at Jeslyn.