A car pulled into the yard, likely Jessie's.

Albert caught sight of her stepping out of the car just as he glanced through the floor-to-ceiling glass.

The sky was painted with rosy hues.

In the twilight, Jessie emerged from the car, dressed in a chic silk blouse and knee-length skirt, looking stunning as ever.

She strolled toward him through the fading light.

Less than ten meters away, separated only by transparent glass, she stood in the dimness while he lounged in the opulent dining room, eyeing her like a lord.

After a beat, Jessie gave a slight nod, maintaining a polite distance.

Albert chuckled dismissively.

He could read her thoughts, so as she entered, he quipped, “Slip into something comfy and join me for some soup. It's chicken soup with fresh bamboo shoots. Took a good four hours to cook."

Jessie slipped on her slippers, brushing off his antics.

In a soft voice, she inquired, “Where's Jeslyn?"

Wearing a forlorn expression, Albert lamented, "You sure you don't want a taste? Your mother has been at it all afternoon. She's made enough for an army, I reckon. She even threw in your share."

Jessie was puzzled.

What was he on about? Her mom sending chicken soup over?

Jessie found it hard to believe her mom would cook chicken soup for Albert.

Albert could sense Jessie's disbelief, so he offered her a taste.

As Jessie spotted the bamboo shoots, she recognized them as the specialty only found at her aunt's place. Her mom had returned from Tashkao with two bags of them.

Jessie did the math. Half the shoots had probably ended up in Albert's soup.

Noting Jessie's silence, Albert grinned, "Seems your mother has got more concern for me than you do. Jessie, when are you going to whip up some chicken soup for me?"

Jessie scoffed, "Just you wait."