She'd struggled with health issues since birth.

Still feeling down, she rested her head on his shoulder, grumbling, "Elsie said Miss Green's your girlfriend.”

Albert seemed lost for a beat, and then managed a bitter smile. "She was."

Jeslyn studied him. After a pause, she said, "Dad, you're hurting too."

Hurting?

Albert's chest tightened. No, he hurt Jessie, and he deserved everything that made him suffer now.

After leaving Albert's, Jessie drove aimlessly until around nine o'clock.

Her car sat parked downstairs.

A white car occupied the space in front. Exiting her vehicle, she spotted Axell.

Approaching him, she queried, "I thought you had work. What brings you here?"

Axell met her gaze, speaking softly. "I wrapped up an eight-hour surgery today; it went well. I just wanted to see you after that.”

Despite past conflicts, being cared for felt comforting.

He suggested they go out for a drink. She gladly accepted, informing Lettie beforehand. Lettie cheered at the news of her going on a date with AxelL.

The hangout with Axell felt cozy and chill.

Instead of having a drink at the bar, they snacked, had some fun at the arcade and then watched a movie together.

Axell, always the gentleman, made sure she had a blast. Jessie had a blast indeed.

Before the clock struck midnight, he dropped her off and gestured toward her home, saying, “It's late. I won't come up and disturb your mom."

Jessie nodded.

“How do you feel?" he asked in a hushed tone, his expression serious as he gazed at her.

"Huh?"