Elton pulled out the photo, the one taken on the cruise ship.
In the picture, they were both dressed to the nines in evening wear, standing close together. Elton's hand was resting casually on her shoulder, and they looked like they were more than just friends.
Agnes felt a swirl of emotions she couldn't quite name. Was she really being unfaithful? Why else would she have been alone with Elton on that massive luxury cruise ship? And with her memory in such disarray, the only man she could picture herself with, the only one she felt anything for, was Elton. She couldn't even fathom the idea that she was married to someone else.
But then there was the shock of it all—being betrayed by someone who was once her closest friend. How could Elton, her dear friend, have set her up like this?
Elton had shared a lot, too much for her to process at once.
"Elton, I need some time alone," Agnes said, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Agnes!" Elton called out, trying to hold her back. "Will you come with me?"
"I don't know," she replied, her voice shaky. "Please, I just need some space to think."
"Alright, I won't bother you. I'll just sit here and wait for your answer," he said, resigned.
Without another word, Agnes retreated to her room.
Agnes stood by her bed for what felt like hours, until daylight fully illuminated the room. Finally, she opened the door and stepped out.
Elton was seated on the couch, looking as if he hadn't moved all night. When he saw her, he jumped up, saying her name with a mix of hope and fear, "Agnes."
She walked over slowly, her eyes fixed on the man who stood before her. He seemed so different now, a stranger cloaked in a shadow of brooding intensity, a far cry from the bright, carefree boy she'd once known.
Standing face to face with Elton, she finally spoke, "Elton, I've made my decision."
His expression shifted slightly, his eyes narrowing with anticipation, waiting for her to continue.
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