Jared's gaze was heavy with an unshakeable sorrow as he looked at Agnes.
With her head bowed, Agnes spoke softly, "I know I'm not perfect. In your eyes, I always seem indecisive, unable to make the tough calls or cut ties with the past. I'm hesitant, but Jared, this is who I am. I can't bear to hurt those who have sacrificed so much for me."
The pain in Jared's eyes deepened, his discomfort increasingly evident. He seemed to anticipate what Agnes was about to say next. Deep down, Jared didn't really want to hear it. Yet, he remained silent.
Continuing, without meeting Jared's eyes, Agnes confessed, "But my feelings for you have never changed, not four years ago, and not now. Even when I knew our families were entangled in a feud, I couldn't stop loving you, Jared. I truly, truly love you."
Jared had braced himself for Agnes to distance herself from him again. But her words took him by surprise. His heart began to race, thumping loudly against his chest. Yet, he dared not let himself feel too hopeful, fearing the next moment might bring another twist. So, he just stood there, quietly, his gaze fixed on Agnes.
Finally, Agnes lifted her head and said, "So, can we try one last time? To trust each other, to be honest, and to face everything together, can we?"
Jared couldn't believe his ears. It took him a moment to process her words. Agnes waited, hesitantly calling out Jared's name after a brief silence. Snapping back to reality, Jared suddenly gripped Agnes's shoulders, "Are you serious? Say it again, please."
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