Tears welled up in Jessieâs eyes.
Mixed emotions swirled but she gently pulled away.
Entering the ward one after another, they saw Jeslyn fussing.
She knew Elsie adored her and would give her anything she wanted but, when she spotted Jessie, her smile faded fast.
Jeslyn buried under the blanket, grumbling, âWhatâs with the visit?
If youâre here to beg me to your place, forget it.
My spotâs bigger, comfier, and mosquito-free.
â
Jessie couldnât help but chuckle at Jeslynâs fiery retort.
Albert gently tapped Jeslyn under the blanket.
âYou were just talking about wanting to see Jessie.
Sheâs here, but now you wonât see her?â
âI donât want to see her.
She said no to being my mom.
â
Jessie thought Jeslyn was being stubborn.
She wondered how Albert had raised her.
Logically, Jeslyn was his only kid and would take over the family business someday.
But wasnât she a bit too wayward?
Albert read Jeslynâs mind in a flash.
He sat on the bedâs edge, explaining, âMiss Green had a spat with her boyfriend, so thereâs a chance she could still be your mom.
â
Jeslyn peeked out from under the blanket, thrilled.
But she was also a proud kid, trying to hide her excitement.
âDaddy, it sounds like no one wants you.
You will have to wait for Miss Green and her boyfriend to have a fight.
â
Jessie was left speechless.
Albert glanced at Elsie.
âWhereâd she pick this up? Are these things on TV now?â
Elsie replied calmly.
âIsnât that what youâve been saying? She hears it, she learns it.
â
Albert rubbed his nose, âReally? Did I really say that?â
Elsie nodded enthusiastically.
Jessie felt it was time to go.
Sheâd already visited Jeslyn.
Jeslyn started nitpicking, âNo gift? Donât people usually bring gifts for patients? I donât have any other requests.
I just want to have a bowl of wonton.
I havenât had a good meal for several days.
â
Jessie wanted to argue but Jeslyn was sick.
She patted Jeslynâs head.
âIâll go grab some and cook it for you.
Cool?â
Jeslyn reluctantly agreed.
âFine.
â