Heartstrings on Fire

Agnes was hit with a wave of unexplained sadness.

At the same time, she felt an odd sense of camaraderie.

Taking the bracelet, Agnes said, “Godfather, if you don’t mind, I’ll come by often to chat.”

Looking back, Agnes felt she might have been a bit rash

But the term “godfather” felt oddly natural

She was usually an introverted person, not one to easily make friends.

But for some reason, she felt a special bond with Albert.

Maybe it was his beef burgers, they tasted just like her mom’s

the vibe

just like that, Agnes found herself with a new godfather.

over the moon when Agnes addressed him

protect you, no one will hurt you”

for hours about

never asked about

visits to Albert were merely gestures of companionship, keeping an elderly man company. Their bond

restaurant and began her walk back to her hotel. The alley was deserted, the light rain adding an eeriness to its solitude. A shared glass of wine with Albert had left her slightly buzzed, making her feel lighter, as if her

tranquility was soon disrupted. Her path became blocked by a group of men garishly dressed in heavy metal attire, their hair dyed in vivid hues. Their leader, a gaunt man with yellow hair, gave her a predatory

them

man with yellow hair obstructed her progress. “Hey there, pretty lady,” he drawled, “It’s not safe for you out here. Let me escort you back” When he reached out, presumably to caress her face, she

response was a raucous laugh, shared by his entourage. Feisty I like it, he said, attempting to close the distance between them again. But as he reached out Agnes used his momentum against him, sending him sprawling with a well-executed

someone to be trifled

training were paying off.