Heartstrings on Fire (Agnes and Jared)

There was something about him that had changed, something palpable, yet indefinable. Agnes, with her sharp eyes, couldn't quite put her finger on it.

"So, when are you heading back home?" Agnes asked Jared as they sipped on their morning coffee. "Your dad mentioned you've been holed up here for half of a month."

Agnes was well aware that Jared hadn't told anyone about his little escape-not even Alyssa. Even Leo had called her, sounding all riled up because the office was in chaos and the big boss was MIA. Jared just shrugged nonchalantly, "I'll head back when it's time. No need for you to worry about it."

Agnes didn't press further.

Jared had already whipped up breakfast. He arranged the plates on the garden table and said, "Eat up. I'm gonna run to the store for some groceries."

"Aren't you eating?" Agnes frowned.

"Nah, I grabbed something earlier."

And with that, Jared left. Agnes knew full well he hadn't eaten; he just didn't want to share a meal with her. But then why bother making breakfast for her in the first place?

A wave of bitterness washed over her as she looked down at the bowl of oatmeal, two sunny-side-up eggs, and some bacon. She took a bite-the oatmeal was bland, but its smooth, warm consistency was like a comforting embrace that filled her with a spark of energy. She finished the bowl without realizing.

Soon after, she heard the front gate open and close. Expecting Jared to be back already seemed too quick. As she turned around, it wasn't Jared standing there-it was Valeria.

Agnes wasn't entirely surprised to see Valeria here; of course, she was searching for Jared. Valeria, however, couldn't hide the flicker of shock upon seeing Agnes.

Valeria, ever the professional, was clad in crisp trousers and a tailored black blazer, her hair pulled back into a sleek ponytail. She wore no jewelry, yet her presence was commanding. Agnes stood up, "Are you looking for Jared? He's out, but you can wait for him if you like."

Valeria nodded, "I am. He's been off the radar for too long."

Off the radar. That sounded serious. To everyone else, Jared had indeed vanished.

Agnes was at a loss for words.

Valeria stepped closer, "Since you're here, Ms. Pritchard, there are some things I'd like to discuss with you."

Agnes' voice was steady, "What would that be?"

Valeria didn't miss a beat, "I know there's been a misunderstanding between you and Jared concerning Mr. Mansfield."

Agnes' heart skipped.

Valeria continued, "My father's situation, I understand it's troubling for you, but I have no desire to justify it. He is still my father, and I cannot stand by and watch him spend his life behind bars." Agnes' smile was frosty, "But your father did commit crimes, and I won't let him off easily."

Valeria's tone remained calm, yet firm, "We all have our stances, Ms. Pritchard. Let's just play the hand we're dealt."