Once the nurse had exited, Elsie, ever perceptive, took the child for a walk, seeking sce in the crisp outdoor air and leaving the two alone.


    The ward fell into a serene hush.


    Alberty still, a marked change from his usual banter. Perhaps his vitality had been sapped by the loss of blood, leaving him without the energy to jest.


    Jessie approached, settling on the sofa by his bedside without a word, but reached out to gently grasp his hand. Eyes downcast, she murmured, Albert, Ill be here for you until your discharge. However, once youre out of the hospital, our paths will diverge. Your attempt to sway me with self- inflicted harm wont tether me to you.


    Albert absorbed her words in silence.


    After a moment, he ventured, Do you pity me? Jessies response was firm. No.


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    He then ced his hand over hers, resting it on her heart. After a pause, he whispered with a raspy voice, Your heart says otherwise.


    Albert kept his hand in ce, sensing Jessies wild and uneven heartbeat.


    He understood her all too well.


    Whenever she fibbed, it was obvious in her expression. Her ears would blush a touch, and her pulse would race.


    This close moment felt strangely out of character for them.


    Jessie tried to withdraw her hand, but Albert gripped tighter, making her aware of her rapid pulse. Your hearts racing.


    Release me! Albert, youve got no shame.


    Noticing her blush, Albert let out a gentleugh. He let go of her hand and leaned backfortably on the pillow, retorting, Remember that day? We did it multiple times, and you clung to me, pleading for me not to go.


    Jessie looked away, murmuring, Lets forget that day.


    Forget? Impossible! It ys over in my head daily.


    Jessie deemed Albert aplete rogue! She then sneered. Mr. Waston, my apologies for being so tempting.


    They exchanged yful jabs. They werent as close as they used to be, but they werent exactly distant either. Jessie guessed Albert might believe their encounter had altered their rtionship.


    Yet, she resolved to leave once he was released from the hospital.


    Just then, the door swung open to unveil a known face peering inside.


    It was Shawn with Yvonne by his side.


    Shawn was faring well in business, owning assets in Duefron, yet his wealth waygged behind Alberts.