The Wrong Woman

Imogen settled into Jasper's car, preparing to visit her parents. Upon calling Carol, she realized that Carol and Gregory had returned to their hometown for a visit.

Imogen considered postponing the visit, but Jasper insisted on meeting the Kingsleys today. Thus, they altered their route and set off toward her hometown.

Imogen's hometown was a remote and impoverished village, dotted with run-down houses mostly inhabited by elderly residents, women, and children left behind. The roads were muddy and difficult to navigate, adding to the feeling of a laborious journey despite the short distance.

As they drove into the village, their arrival seemed to stir up curiosity among the villagers.

Local gossiping women emerged to witness the commotion, while children playfully chased after the car. Beneath a large tree, elderly villagers sat, pointing and discussing the arrival of the visitors.

Their car halted in front of a dilapidated house, and Imogen felt a pang of unease. She didn't want Jasper to see the stark reality of her family's original home, fearing his potential judgment.

Stepping out of the car, Jasper surveyed the house. He was momentarily taken aback but quickly adjusted to the authentic historical ambiance of the place.

Upon hearing the car engine, Carol hurriedly stepped out, her smile warm and welcoming. "Oh, you're here already? There's no need to come all this way for a visit. We'll be back in Phoenicia in a couple of days. You can visit us there, it's the same."

car with

thoughtful of you. Come on in. Are you tired from

the house, Jasper met Imogen's grandmother, Pippa Glaston-a benevolent old

village learned that Imogen

The gifts he brought seemed valuable, clearly marking him as

room was crowded with a makeshift

of people had gathered around it-Pippa, Gregory, Carol, Imogen's aunts and uncles, together with a few curious children

he were a rare specimen. Their gaze sent

sat there,

sweating under their scrutiny. Imogen, too, felt nervous, taking occasional sips from

for

much does he

in, "Did you buy a

he? Are his parents still