Heartstrings On Fire

Good thing Agnes was quick on her feet, so that bucket of water only dampened the hem of her dress.

The woman was fierce and intimidating. “Get out! Now! You’re not welcome here.”

Agnes said calmly, “Mrs. Fabian, I just want to talk to you. I mean no harm.”

Mrs. Fabian looked impatient. “I have nothing to discuss with journalists. Leave now or I’ll kick you out.” With that, Mrs. Fabian slammed the door shut.

Agnes found herself left out in the cold.

She sighed. This was a tough nut to crack, no chance for a conversation at all.

But Agnes was not one to give up so easily. She stood at the doorstep, plotting her next move.

Soon after, she heard the barking of dogs in the alleyway, and clearly someone else was approaching.

black overcoat, came in slowly with

like swallowing a calming pill for Agnes, whose anxiety lessened considerably at his

her and noticing her damp dress, he asked,

get in and start

“Let me

hopeful. After all, Jared was famously known as a skilled negotiator

and in no

voice, filled with venom, emerged from within, “Are you still here? Leave now or I’ll call the police.” The same woman’s voice, filled with murderous intent. Seeing two people at her doorstep, she snarled, “What now, you brought reinforcements? Don’t think

animals? If you’re gone,

changed visibly, her faux ferocity falling

discuss your eviction. I’m working on a special feature for the Stray Animal Protection Association about the stray animals

“So you’re not here on behalf of the government to

not a government official. Evictions are not within my jurisdiction, Mrs. Fabian.

seemed doubtful but finally opened her door. “Come in,

and Jared exchanged a glance before entering.