However, in terms of fairness, it posed a significant test for a man.

Upon his return to the villa, Albert was surprised to find Helen there as well.

Helen had chosen to remain in Duefron all these years, unwilling to relocate to Heron. Perhaps she still harbored resentment toward Albert's father, the man who had deceived her.

Despite her advancing age, Helen maintained an air of elegance as she playfully interacted with Jeslyn.

Helen was a woman of intelligence. She knew that Albert and Daisy had a strained relationship, and she was aware that Jeslyn was not Albert's biological daughter.

Yet, out of a desire for her son to have a semblance of a real family, Helen chose to overlook these discrepancies.

“Mom!" Albert greeted her warmly.

Albert removed his coat and handed it to the servant before entering the hall. Jeslyn rushed over and wrapped her arms around his leg, calling out "Daddy." Helen noticed the faint smell of smoke clinging to Albert and remarked, "You smell like smoke. Aren't you worried it'll affect the child?"

Albert offered a faint smile, though the heaviness in his expression betrayed his true feelings to his mother.

It wasn't until Helen had put Jeslyn to bed that she broached the topic with her son, preparing a cup of tea to ease the tension.

After taking a sip, Albert complimented, "Mom, the tea you brew is exceptional. I can't find anything like this anywhere else. I should have Emma learn from you one of these days."

Helen shook her head, disapproving. "So, you've hired a secretary just to serve you tea? What a waste of talent!

Over the years, you've become more composed, but you've lost some of your honesty and individuality."

Albert smiled wearily, leaning back against the sofa and running a hand through his hair.

He leaned against the sofa, touched his forehead and sighed. “I guess I'm just getting older. I don't have the same energy I used to."

Helen leaned in, gently massaging his temples.

“I've heard you've been spending time with Jessie lately. Jeslyn mentioned that she turned you down. What happened? If you still have feelings for her, you should do everything you can to win her back.

Don't let her slip away again."

Albert sighed, his gaze distant.

"She's seeing someone else now. He's a doctor. They seem to be happy together."