He caught up just as the elevator doors slid open, revealing an empty car. Jessie stepped in, moving to close the doors, but Alberts hand intercepted, holding them ajar. She averted her gaze, focusing on the ascending numbers.
In a hushed tone, Albert murmured, Marcus isnt being truthful.
Jessie was momentarily stunned before grasping his implication.
She retorted, Thats none of my concern! Its something your wife should handle.
Albert met her icy demeanor with a solemn tone. Lets not dwell on that. Melissa mentioned your plans to sell the hotel and go abroad.
Where to and for how long?
Tears welled in Jessies eyes.
In the past, she wouldve engaged in a heated argument with him, but now, with each letdown, she found herself drained of the energy to be angry. Albert was now someone elses spouse, and Jessie refused to let him sway her emotions any Longer.
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.
After a beat of silence, she calmly responded, Probably two or three years.
She kept her destination to herself.
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Albert caught her drift. She wanted no ties with him, so she remained tight-lipped.
With a bitter smile, he remarked, Dont fret. I wont pester you.
Marcus is spot on. Im a married man. It wouldnt be right to bother you.
Jessie offered no response, but she lifted her head slightly.
As their conversation wound down, the elevator chimed its arrival.
Just as Jessie prepared to depart, Albert halted her, saying, Jessie!
Turning slowly, she inquired, Is there anything else, Mr. Waston?
Albert observed the slight reddening of Jessies eyes, sensing her discomfort. Stepping out of the elevator, he approached her with deliberation, producing an envelope from his pocket. Jessie, I know you harbor resentment towards me. Truth be told, I loathe myself too!
But this is where we stand. I may not have much to offer in the future. Take this. Consider it my final gesture.
Jessie stood there in disbelief.
With a faint smile, Albert added, Jessie, Happy New Year.
His words threatened to unleash her tears anew.
Unwanted, yet Albert insisted, pressing the envelope into her hand.
He gently clasped her hand, locking eyes with her before briskly walking away.