Thinking she'd been clear, she turned to get in her car. Then came a cold voice from behind. "Jessie, are you sure it's not about Albert? He's loaded and willing to drop a billion in the hospital just to separate us. True love, huh? You're swept off your feet, right?"

Jessie tensed.

After a pause, she replied softly, “Let's keep it civil, Axell.

There's no need to blame someone else entirely. Weren't you ready to bail because of his cash last night? You just regret it now."

Jessie realized Axell really wasn't her match.

She hopped in her car, buckled up, and drove off, feeling a pang at their parting, worsened by their sour split.

Heading home, she sat in her car for a spell, lost in thought even after stepping out.

Unaware, she approached the apartment building.

Suddenly, a figure lurked in the shadows. Startled, she was pulled into a tight embrace.

She tried to protest, but he silenced her with a kiss which was hungry and fervent.

Recognizing his scent of tobacco, she pushed him away, anger and shyness mingling within her.

Albert stumbled back, wary of her safety near his lit cigarette, which he promptly stubbed out.

Her slap stung his cheek.

He didn't react, just tossed aside the cigarette butt and closed the door with one hand.

Then he drew her close again, caressing her and kissing her with intensity.

Finally releasing her, he gently touched her flushed lips, murmuring huskily, "I've wanted to do that for ages."

Jessie's nerves settled at last.

She landed three slaps on his cheek, expecting him to be irked. But he chuckled softly, pulling her close. "So, you're done with him?"

Feeling embarrassed, she nodded. She'd ended things with Axell. Did Albert see it as an opportunity?

Turning away, she muttered, “Let me go!"