"Why the formalities? Calling me Mr. Waston feels a bit weird, don't you think? Jessie, do we really need to be so proper?"

Jessie glanced down, a soft grin spreading across her lips. "Sure thing. There is nothing going on between us."

Albert felt the urge to speak but eventually reined it in.

He rose, suggesting, "Hey, let's grab dinner here. I'll tell the chef to whip up some perch for you. You dig perch, right? They're juicy and fresh this time of year."

Jessie shook her head.

When she mentioned sending him home, Albert's brow creased. "Jessie, can't we just hang out like old pals and grab a bite to eat?"

Already on her feet, Jessie headed for the door.

“Have you ever known friends who, uh, go there?" she inquired.

"Albert, don't push it. My roots might be in Duefron, but I've got a sweet setup abroad. I have no problem moving abroad again," Jessie explained.

Albert sank onto the couch.

The summer sun beat down, casting a golden glow on his profile, enhancing his good looks. He watched her leave without protest.

Later, he walked out of the villa slowly. Jessie sat in her car with the window rolled down.

“The backseat's comfier," she suggested.

Albert wordlessly took the passenger seat. Jessie glanced his way, remarking, "Your body, your choices. If you don't take care of it, no one else will."

Albert reclined, closing his eyes for a moment of rest.

As Jessie revved the engine, he muttered, "You do care for me, but your words are always so harsh."

Tears welled up in Jessie's eyes.

After dropping off Albert, she trudged back home, her body weary.

Climbing the stairs, she noticed the light was on and realized Lettie had returned.

Jessie was a bit taken aback.