Albert offered a faint smile, though the heaviness in his expression betrayed his true feelings to his mother.
It wasnât until Helen had put Jeslyn to bed that she broached the topic with her son, preparing a cup of tea to ease the tension.
After taking a sip, Albert complimented, âMom, the tea you brew is exceptional.
I canât find anything like this anywhere else.
I should have Emma learn from you one of these days.
â
Helen shook her head, disapproving.
âSo, youâve hired a secretary just to serve you tea? What a waste of talent!
Over the years, youâve become more composed, but youâve lost some of your honesty and individuality.
â
Albert smiled wearily, leaning back against the sofa and running a hand through his hair.
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He leaned against the sofa, touched his forehead and sighed.
âI guess Iâm just getting older.
I donât have the same energy I used to.
â
Helen leaned in, gently massaging his temples.
âIâve heard youâve been spending time with Jessie lately.
Jeslyn mentioned that she turned you down.
What happened? If you still have feelings for her, you should do everything you can to win her back.
Donât let her slip away again.
â
Albert sighed, his gaze distant.
âSheâs seeing someone else now.
Heâs a doctor.
They seem to be happy together.
â
Helen was taken aback.
She knew from mutual acquaintances that Jessie hadnât been involved with anyone in years.
Why had she suddenly found a boyfriend as soon as Albert returned to Duefron?
Was Jessie defending Albert as if he were a contagious virus?
Thinking of this, Helen couldnât help but burst into laughter.
Albert couldnât help but protest in a low voice in front of his mother, âYouâre mocking me too?â
Helen teased back, âWell, you deserve it.
Sheâs treating you the way you treated her in the past.
I think itâs fair.
You still have feelings for her, Albert, and itâs evident.
Perhaps all you can do now is observe quietly and see if thereâs any opportunity.
But remember, no matter how much you care for her or how influential you may be, you canât interfere with her current relationship.
Jessie has been through a lot before.
She used to love you deeply, butââ
Helen paused, her heart filled with pity for both Jessie and Albert.
There was a time when her son could have had the perfect relationship and family.
After a prolonged silence, Albert said softly, âI understand.
I promise you.
â
Meanwhile, as Albert remained absent, Axellâs relationship with Jessie flourished.
In early June, Axellâs parents expressed a desire to meet Jessie upon learning of their sonâs new girlfriend.
Axell shared the news over the phone with a smile.
Jessie covered the receiver, sharing a glance with Lettie.
Sensing their romance was blossoming, Lettie offered a gentle suggestion, âItâs a rare opportunity for them to visit.
You should meet them.
No pressure, though.
â