She struggled toprehend their implications.


    It never crossed Jessies mind that Albert would assert that Jeslyn wasnt his own flesh and blood.


    Jessie had no doubt about the truth in Alberts words. His love for Jeslyn was unwavering, and she knew he wouldnt fabricate such a im just to appease her.


    Jessie couldntprehend whose child Jeslyn might belong to.


    Sensing Jessies thoughts, Albert offered a bitter smile and reached for a cigarette without conscious thought. I could use a smoke, he murmured softly.


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Albert felt the need to unwind before proceeding. The memories he was about to delve into were far from pleasant.


    Jessie turned her eyes away. Im not interested in your business, she asserted.


    Albert gazed at her, a faint smile ying on his lips. Youre just mad at me, he observed.


    Afterward, he quietly ignited a cigarette and inhaled deeply. At that instant, he appeared to regress into the carefree youth he was two decades ago.


    However, the expression on his face was transient.


    In the next breath, he resumed his facade as the CEO of Waston Group.


    He regarded Jessie, her anger evident as she avoided his gaze, but he knew she was listening. He always knew her sentiments toward him.


    Albert lingered in contemtion, a cigarette held between his fingers.


    He hesitated as he recounted his marriage with Daisy, sparing no details for Jessie. His voice, rough with emotion, conveyed, I tried to salvage it at first, but there was nothing there. We gave it a shot for amonth or two, but it just wasnt happening. Im sure she felt let down.


    He chose not to linger on the negatives surrounding histe wife.


    After all, Daisy was Jeslyns mother.


    Finally, in a hushed tone, he confessed, Jessie, I understand our situation is moreplex than my previous marriage, but I still long for a chance with you.


    He regretted his decision long ago; but it was just the unfortunate reality that he was already tied to marriage.


    Jessie sensed his thoughts.


    She remained quiet for a moment before questioning, What makes you believe Id entertain the idea of being with you after your wifes passing? Albert, yes, youre wealthy and influential now, and money can be appealing, but Im ustomed to my life. I dont need your wealth. As for emotions, I think thest thing we should be discussing is emotions.


    She asked him to refrain from probing into her personal life any further.


    The carpsed into silence, with only the sound of their breathing filling the enclosed space.


    After a minute or two, he abruptly seized her wrist and drew her into his arms. Jessie resisted vigorously, but her struggle was in vain, and she found herself falling on hisp.


    Seeing her disobedience, he pressed her slender back.