Kiana, spotting Jeslynâs envious stare, grew even more enthusiastic.
The group settled around the long table.
Marcus retrieved a wine bottle from the cabinet along with four glasses.
Turning to Albert, he suggested, âIâll have the driver take you back later.
Gatherings like these are rare.
Hope youâre okay with it.
â
Whether by design or coincidence, Marcus had Albert seated directly across from Jessie.
Initially hesitant, a glance at Jessie changed Albertâs mind.
With a small smile, he responded, âI wouldnât mind at all! In fact, Iâd be delighted to share a drink.
â
Upon hearing this, Marcus filled the glasses with wine, aligning them neatly before distributing them individually.
In a hushed tone, Melissa pointed out.
âJessie shouldnât drink any alcohol.
â
Jessie had once struggled with alcohol, often drinking to excess daily post-breakup with Albert.
This had taken a toll on her stomach, leading her to give up alcohol for some time.
Marcus, smiling lightly, reassured, âOne glass wonât hurt!â He was about to hand the glass to Jessie.
Suddenly, Albert intervened, speaking softly.
âItâll upset her stomach.
Let me drink it for her.
â
Marcus, smiling amiably yet with a teasing tone, remarked, âDidnât think you still had a soft spot for the lady, Mr.
Waston.
â
Then, Albert was about to take the glass.
Before he could do so, Jessie extended her hand to grasp the glass, inadvertently brushing Albertâs hand.
The familiar touch momentarily stunned them both, especially Albert.
Beneath the warm light, Jessie, her voice raspy, expressed, âYour kindness is appreciated, Mr.
Waston.
But I can manage on my own.
Itâs just wine, after all.
â
At her words, Albert fixed a deep, unreadable gaze on Jessie.
Eventually, he released his hold on the glass.
Jessie took the glass and downed it in one go.
The liquidâs passage down her throat evoked memories of a painful past.
She was puzzled by Albertâs return to Duefron.
Having settled in Heron, his return now baffled her.
Unable to puzzle it out, Jessie let the thought go⦠Finishing her drink, she gently asked Marcus, âCould I have another, please?â
Marcus, however, shook his head and put the bottle away.
He then smiled and said, âMaybe next time.
You wouldnât want to upset Melissa, right?â