Peering into the rearview mirror, she noticed her makeup had smeared, and her eyes appeared slightly puffy, giving her a disheveled look.

Staring back at her reflection, she reminded herself with determination to maintain her distance from Albert.

Fearing her mother might notice something was amiss, Jessie opted not to go home to change. Instead, she stopped by a nearby store, picked out a new outfit, and transformed her appearance. It was then that she received a call from Axell, whose voice carried a laid-back and casual tone.

“What should I do, Jessie? I'm finding myself addicted to dating you!" he quipped.

Jessie, phone in hand, gazed out at the bustling traffic and inquired softly, "Are you free tonight?"

Axell didn't confirm his availability directly but responded by sending her the location of a high-end restaurant.

Recognizing the address, Jessie knew the place was renowned for its extravagant dining experience, often costing thousands for a meal.

She realized Axell was serious about their date.

Aware of his recent home purchase and probable tight budget, Jessie considered suggesting a more affordable venue. However, suspecting Axell had chosen the restaurant after much deliberation, she didn't want to dampen his spirits.

She resolved to enjoy the dinner and discuss the matter later, embracing the simplicity of a normal meal over the lavish lifestyle she once knew.

By eight o'clock that evening, Jessie and Axell were seated in the elegant setting of the upscale restaurant. The ambiance was enhanced by recent renovations and the soft melodies of piano music filled the air.

Axell, not usually a patron of such establishments, took a moment to appreciate the music before commenting to Jessie, “The pianist is very good."

Jessie, momentarily distracted, glanced over and with a_ smile, recognized the musician. "It's Alexis."

“Alexis?” Axell's confusion was brief before he connected the dots.

“Is she Alexis Fowler from Sterling Law Firm? Part of the Fowler family?"

Jessie confirmed with a nod. “Yes! This restaurant was initially opened by Alexis' mother. It was later handed down to Alexis, who sometimes plays the piano here. I imagine it's a place filled with cherished memories from her childhood."

Holding Jessie's hand tenderly, Axell shared his vision of their future, "Jessie, we're going to have a wonderful life together."

Jessie's response was a smile as she leaned in closer, suggesting playfully, “Maybe we can afford to dine at such lavish places once or twice a year, don't you think?"

Axell was charmed by her proposal, finding her endearing in this moment of shared dreams.

He harbored aspirations for their future, hoping to enrich Jessie's life, reintroducing her to her former social circles as "Axell's wife" and ensuring her career was driven by passion, not necessity.