After a brief conversation with Albert, Alexis prepared to depart, prompting Melissa to accompany her out.
Once they were gone, Albert muttered, I need to use the bathroom.
Elsie rushed over with concern. Mr. Waston, allow me to assist you.
Alberts expression soured instantly. Noticing the nearby bedpan, Elsie grasped the situation.
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Since Albert couldnt mobilize yet and required the bedpan, her assistance wasnt appropriate. After a moments thought, she suggested, Shall I summon a nurse for you?
Albert blinked and replied, Nurses cant just come up and handle me.
Understanding his implication, Elsie hesitated before cautiously adding, It might not be appropriate to ask Miss Green either. Perhaps you should manage on your own.
As luck would have it, a nurse entered to check on Albert, who then helped him with his business; allowing Elsie to step back.
Jessie happened to witness this scene upon her emerging from Jeslyns room, casting an awkward pall over the atmosphere.
The nurse saw the caregiving as routine, yet for Albert, the situation was laced with discomfort.
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.
Feeling his dignity compromised, Albert waited for the nurse to exit before addressing Jessie, who seemed lost in thought. His irritation was palpable. How much longer will you stand there gawking?
Jessie, sensing his discomfort, didnt avert her gaze.
Instead, she offered a sharp retort, Considering the possibility of facing similar situations in the near future, especially with partial paralysis, it might be wise to acclimate sooner rather than later.
Her words were a veiled jibe at his age.
Alberts response was laced with sarcasm. It appears I was too lenient with you previously. Bravado serves no purpose. Once Im healed, youll see firsthand whether age has taken its toll on me.
What a tough guy you are, huh? But seriously, when will you release me? My responsibilities demand attention; I cant linger here indefinitely.
Alberts tone softened as he reclined against his pillow. I have no intention of letting you go.
His desire to keep her close was twofold: a mix of personal longing and concern for her safety.
Their conversation was interrupted by a disturbance at the door.
A hesitant bodyguard entered. Mr. Waston, a couple insists on seeing you. Theyve threatened drastic measures if denied entry.
Albert exchanged a glance with Jessie, whose complexion drained of color.
With a gentle grasp of her hand, he reassured, Go stay with Jeslyn. Dont emerge.
Jessie, though on the verge of protest, complied with his directive, sensing the gravity of the situation.
The moment Jessie retreated, a distraught middle-aged couple entered, their faces etched with exhaustion, likely from days without proper rest. They were Axells parents, intellectuals brought to desperation, who immediately knelt before Albert in a plea for empathy.