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.

sleek black overcoat, came in slowly

Jared was like swallowing a calming pill for Agnes, whose anxiety lessened considerably at his sight.

noticing her damp dress,

get in and start a conversation. Do you have any

“Let me

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

knocked on the door again, and in no time, the

intent. Seeing two people at her doorstep, she snarled, “What now, you brought reinforcements? Don’t think I’ll be scared just because you brought someone along. Get lost, all of you, or we’ll all go down together.”

the stray animals? If you’re gone, who will take

The woman’s expression changed

a special

you’re not here on behalf of the government

and answered, “I’m a journalist, not a government official. Evictions are not within my jurisdiction, Mrs. Fabian. We’re

finally opened her door. “Come

and Jared exchanged a glance