A Second Chance at Forever novel (Eleanor and Bernard)

Atdinner, Jessie's demeanor shifted between moods, at times acting petulantly while Shawn's wife attentively served her.

Jessie eventually found herself feeling out of place amidst the cozy dynamics of Marcus and Melissa, along with Shawn and Janet. She was struck by a pang of loneliness, pondering on a life that could have been with someone who loved and cherished her, imagining children of their own.

As Janet offered her more food, Jessie snapped out of her reverie, managing a smile despite the tears brimming in her eyes.

Retreating to her room post-dinner, Jessie lay on her bed, engulfed in silence, haunted by memories of Albert.

The thought of how swiftly she was expected to move on from their three-year relationship, which held moments as significant as her first intimate experience, seemed impossible.

Her phone's abrupt ring jolted her from her thoughts, displaying a reminder she had set a year prior-to congratulate Albert on a year without smoking.

highlighted the distance

had moved on, leaving Jessie clinging

the one unable to let go, even as Albert had clearly moved forward, likely now

realization deepened

reflection, she stumbled upon a single photo of Albert, the last piece of

at it, her emotions overflowed, and she

demands didn't pause for heartbreak. Shortly, her mother would arrive at Melissa's, seeking Jessie, pulling her back from the depths of her past and into the

Marcus and Melissa returning home early to enjoy a serene weekend. Yvonne was engrossed in her piano lesson under Melissa's watchful eye, while Marcus and Matthew shared a joyous time in the yard

abrupt stop of a black limousine at their gate, heralding

entrance was swift and her demeanor, grave and troubled. Sᴇaʀ*ᴄh the Find ɴøᴠel.nᴇt

slap that resonated with years of unspoken reprimands, marking the first time she had ever struck her