Regardless of their biological connection, Jeslyn seemed to have inherited Albert's temperament entirely.

Sensing Jessie's discomfort, Jeslyn stretched and suggested, "I'll go outside to build a snowman. Take your time. Once it's ready, let's enjoy it together."

Speechless, Jessie watched as Jeslyn hurried away. With a determined expression, she proceeded to carefully craft the cake. Yet her gaze kept drifting to the window.

Outside, the snow was getting heavier and heavier.

Jessie realized she might be stranded for the night, but she wasn't overly concerned. Albert had been traveling frequently over the past six months, often leaving her in charge of Jeslyn's care. Staying overnight at the mansion had become routine.

The thought brought a blush to Jessie's cheeks.

As the sound of a car approached from outside, Jessie paid it little mind, assuming it was the villa's driver returning from a shopping trip with Elsie. Given the ongoing snowfall, they had probably gone out to gather supplies.

With her focus on the challenging task of cake-making, Jessie kept her head lowered.

Footsteps approached from behind her. She thought it was Jeslyn, so she spoke softly. "It's cold out there, right?"

No one answered.

The footsteps drew nearer until a pair of strong arms enveloped Jessie's waist, emanating a familiar male scent mingled with the chill of winter.

Albert?

Jessie's surprise mingled with confusion. Why had he returned?

Jessie, in a fluster, attempted to disentangle herself, urging him to release her grasp.

But the moment her hand touched the back of his, he captured it in his broad palm, playfully toying with her fingers. Leaning his head against her slender shoulder, he breathed lightly, "You're making a cake."

Feeling trapped and unnerved, Jessie's voice trembled as she pleaded, “Let go of me."

Albert tightened his hold, gently nipping at the back of her neck.

Then suddenly, he let go of her.

Leaning against the counter, Albert felt a wave of fatigue wash over him after the long drive. Though he yearned for a cigarette, he resisted, mindful of Jessie's presence. Instead, he stowed the cigarette pack and lighter back into his pocket.

Observing Jessie's diligent piping, he noticed her sculpting a figurine out of cream-a representation of him.