Heartstrings on Fire

Chapter 11

Agnes calmly pulled her hand from Laura’s grasp, saying, “Ms. Laura, I won’t tell Dad, trust me.”

She always addressed Laura formally as Ms. Laura, even though Laura had been part of the family for a decade now. Laura had never been demanding, but ever since she married Agnes‘ dad, the warmth of the horhe vanished.

Just as Beatrice had put it, Agnes felt like the odd one out in this supposedly happy trio.

Laura suggested, “Your dad’s back. Let’s go eat in the dining room.”

Preston was thrilled to see Agnes. Knowing she’d be home today; he had bought her favorite durian layered cake.

But Beatrice took the chance when Agnes wasn’t looking, and tossed the cake into the garbage. When Preston discovered, she innocently said, “Dad, that thing stinks like hell. It gives me a headache. Look, neither you nor mom likes durian, and we shouldn’t have to suffer just cause Agnes likes it. I still have homework to do.”

Laura intervened, “It’s just a cake. We can buy another one tomorrow. I made so many goodies today. It’s not worth dampening the

nonchalantly, “It’s just

survival strategy in this family. Not giving a hoot about anything.

and adorable kid, not

pot, “Dad, you probably don’t know, Agnes and

taken aback, “Agnes, is this

should thank Beatrice for being nosy, otherwise, she wouldn’t know

“Yes,

lovey–dovey? I was even discussing with Mr. Taylor about letting you

“No Dad, there was no misunderstanding. Do you know Jenny? She’s pregnant, and Elton

do such a thing! Agnes, don’t worry. I’ll settle