Agnes found herself at a loss for words.
Jared broke the silence, his voice tinged with accusation, “Or are you hoping I’ll give you an easy out? A way to leave this marriage, this family, and me, without any guilt, so you can run back into Elton’s arms?”
Agnes wasn’t sure how the conversation had veered back to this topic again.
But whenever Elton's name came up, Jared’s expression would darken.
Agnes felt an inexplicable pang of guilt.
She remained silent.
Jared’s heart felt like it was being squeezed by an invisible hand.
He had once promised Agnes that he would always trust her, that he would never doubt her over Elton.
Jared had convinced himself that Elton was no longer a threat.
But he hadn’t foreseen Agnes losing her memory.
Agnes didn’t deny anything, leaving Jared feeling even more helpless.
His voice softened, almost pleading, “Agnes, you’ve lost your memory. I won’t force you into anything, but you need to give yourself time to see things clearly. I don't want anyone exploiting your amnesia to drive a wedge between us. I don't want to say much; I just want you to see for yourself. You might not remember now, but time reveals the truth about people.”
Agnes was quiet for a long moment.
Finally, she asked, “What are you trying to say?”
Jared took a breath and said, “Stay with me for a year. Even if we just live as friends. If, after that year, you decide you want to be with Elton, then I’ll wish you both well.”
Agnes furrowed her brow slightly.
She didn’t quite grasp what Jared meant.
And she hadn’t thought much about what the future held.
After a moment of silence, Agnes replied, “I’ll think about it.”
After breakfast, Jared left for work.
Nocturne, their son, soon woke up.
Agnes spent the morning playing with Nocturne.
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