Suddenly, Jessie realized Albert was watching her too, his eyes filled with fondness. She quickly averted her gaze, flushed with discomfort.
She inwardly chastised herself for her timidity, believing she had moved past these feelings.
Albert was merely a part of her life for a brief period. Hed chosen another, fathered a child, and was now a widower. How could she still find herself unsettled by him?
Reflecting on this, Jessie turned her attention to Melissa, resuming their conversation. Suddenly, Kiana came up and embraced her, gazing at Jessie warmly.
Climbing onto her lap, the little one pleaded with Jessie to read her a picture book.
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Truth be told, Kiana had never clung to her like this before.
It was merely a show for Jeslyns benefit Observing this, Marcus shook his head, smiling wryly.
Predictably, this upset Jeslyn greatly.
Jealousy flared in her eyes.
Why did Kiana get a pet dog when she couldnt have one?!
Why was Kiana enjoying story time with Jessie while she was left out?!
Yet, she was determined to have both a pet dog and Jessies affection soon enough!
Jeslyn then looked up at Albert He knew his daughter so well, understanding her thoughts with just a
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.
glance. He set his glass aside, caressing her head softly.
Jeslyn took this as her fathers assent.
Snuggling up to Albert, she fixed her gaze on Jessie Meanwhile, she silently vowed to win over Jessie in time.
The evening air grew chilly.
The birds and bugs in the courtyard quieted down as exhaustion settled over the three kids. But the grown-ups were still buzzing with energy. Marcus seemed to be the only one genuinely enjoying himself.
The others were a mixed bag of emotions.
Melissa didnt want to leave Jessies side, while Jessie was counting down the seconds until she could escape the awkwardness.
And Albert? Well, he wasnt exactly a people person.
Finally, Albert stood up and announced, Its time for Jeslyn to go to bed. Were taking off. Thanks for the dinner.
His driver had been patiently waiting by the entrance.
Before they left, Albert turned to Jessie with a polite offer. Do you need a ride? Driving after drinking isnt the smartest move.
Marcus initially volunteered to drive Jessie home, but then backtracked, saying, Oops, I forgot Im a bit tipsy myself.