Albert refrained from pressing further. He understood that angering her might result in her avoiding him for good.

However, he couldn't resist adding one last remark, saying, “It seems like you've endured quite a bit over the years."

Jessie disregarded his comment.

Albert didn't want to upset her further, but he gently touched her hand and advised, “We didn't use protection earlier. If you wish to avoid pregnancy, it's wise to consider contraception."

He added, "You won't need it next time though."

Jessie remained silent, but her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, and she felt a twinge of self-disdain. She couldn't fathom how she had stooped to depending on Albert to satisfy her physical needs.

On the way back, he purchased the morning-after pill for her and ensured she took it.

Fortunately, her student had canceled afternoon classes. Jessie, feeling drained, was relieved at the prospect of resting.

Albert drove her back to her residence.

Arriving at her building around four in the afternoon, Albert glanced up at the structure before clearing his throat. "Would you like me to escort you upstairs?"

Jessie instinctively touched her neck.

Her skin was tender, and even a gentle touch would easily leave a mark. Albert, being single for so long, had succumbed to desire earlier, rubbing that area of her skin vigorously.

Recalling the morning's events, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment.

She resolved not to see Albert again-not even for sex!

She shook her head and refused, "No, thank you."

Albert, sensing that things were moving too swiftly, refrained from pressing further. With Jessie now entangled with him, Albert felt she wouldn't be able to extricate herself easily. As he parked the car, Albert stepped out to open the door for her. Just as Jessie was about to depart, he tenderly touched her arm and whispered softly, “Have some rest when you're home."

She blushed faintly, feeling a tad bashful.

Jessie worried over explaining to her mother, but upon arriving home, she discovered Lettie had already departed to visit relatives.

The apartment was neat, and Lettie had even left dinner prepared for her.

Seated on the couch, her mind adrift, Jessie's phone rang suddenly.