The Wrong Woman

Jasper's response cut deep into Imogen's pride. She offered a strained smile and pushed herself to say, "I was just kidding. You don't have to get so uptight." After clearing his throat, Jasper explained, "Imogen, it's not that I'm unwilling. It's just-"

"It's okay. You don't have to explain," Imogen said, feeling overwhelmed. Maintaining a facade of composure, she added, "I get it. Let's just go with the flow!" With that, she lowered her head and began eating quickly.

Seeing her tense expression, Jasper felt uneasy and unsure how to proceed. He began, "Imogen-"

Imogen cut him off quickly. "Let's eat. We don't have to discuss this."

Jasper sighed resignedly and quietly focused on his meal. The atmosphere at the table grew noticeably heavy. After dinner, Imogen left the dishes for Jasper to take care of and retreated to her room in a sulk. Sitting on the couch in the living room, Jasper was lost in thought and unable to quiet his mind. As time ticked away, the night deepened. Eventually, the light in Imogen's room went out.

Jasper stood up abruptly and went back to his room. Half an hour passed as he washed up, changed into pajamas, and emerged from his room.

He lingered outside Imogen's door, hand hovering to knock, but hesitated and withdrew it. After a moment's uncertainty, he turned to leave, only to find himself coming back. He remained torn in that manner. Suddenly, the door swung open, and Imogen emerged, holding an empty cup. She froze upon seeing Jasper, who had been on the verge of knocking.

his hand, awkwardly

asleep. I just got

taking the

took her cup to the counter, filled it with water, and

accepted

stepped past her and entered her room. "Let me

into her room and placing it on her bedside table. Standing by the door, she waited for him

found Jasper still in her room instead of leaving, she felt puzzled and asked, "Is there something

as he met

his thoughts.

door open for him. As he drew near, he

the wall