She glanced at Albert.
He seemed composed but Melissa, who had been his confidant for years, sensed his tension.
She knew he was struggling to keep his feelings in check.
After all, his eyes betrayed him.
Melissa sighed softly, rising to greet Jessie, feeling almost ashamed to meet her friendâs shocked gaze.
Flowers scattered on the floor.
Toys for Kiana dropped, along with the picture book for Matthewâ¦
Comparatively, Jessie felt overwhelmed with emotions compared to Albertâs calm demeanor.
She hadnât expected to meet him so soon after returning to Duefron and his wifeâs passing.
She hurriedly stooped to pick up the scattered items.
Melissa knelt beside her, explaining, âJessie, I didnât know⦠It was Marcusâ idea.
â
Jessie understood Melissaâs predicament and knew Marcusâ intentions.
She knew he meant well, but she couldnât accept this kindness.
Her hands trembled uncontrollably.
After a moment, she whispered, âIâll come back another time.
â
Melissa didnât want Jessie to feel embarrassed.
She grasped Jessieâs hand, whispering, âStay.
Mr.
Waston has moved his company here and heâs moved here as well, so youâll bump into each other sooner or later.
Jessie⦠For you own sake, just stay strong and gracefully finish dinner.
If you need to cry later, Iâm always here for you.
â
Tears welled up in Jessieâs eyes.
âMelissa!â
Melissa gave her arm a comforting pat.
She knew it wouldnât be easy but she believed Jessie could handle it.
Suddenly, a slender figure approached, trailed by a little girl.
Albert handed a rose to Jessie, while Jeslyn picked up a small toy, chirping, âYou dropped this, Miss!â
Jessie trembled.
Her gaze locked on a beautiful little girl.
She found her utterly adorable.
This was Albert and his late wifeâs child!
Jessie had never seen herself as being good with kids.
She thought sheâd be awkward.
But this girl standing before her was delicate, innocent, and charming.
She gazed up at Jessie and chirped, âIâm Jeslyn! Jeslyn Waston!â