Juggling two sizzling hot dogs in one hand and a carton of steaming hot fries in the other, Agnes was clearly outmatched.
The fries, fresh from the fryer, were handed to Ryder. "Here, look after your fries. My hands are full, I can't double as your waitress."
Cradling the fries, Ryder chuckled. "I saw you eyeing the food truck like it was your long-lost love. That's why I grabbed one for you."
"Nonsense! Don't go spreading rumors," Agnes retorted with a playful glare.
They strolled out of the bustling street, laughter trailing behind them.
Together, they hopped into Agnes' car.
Meanwhile, the tinted window of a sleek black sedan rolled up quietly.
Reflected in the glass was Jared's stern profile.
He had rescheduled his evening plans to join Agnes on a nostalgic trip back to campus.
Yet, he hadn't anticipated this scene - her carefree laughter with Ryder, as if they were any typical college couple.
Jared had to admit, jealousy was gnawing at him. But he also knew that Agnes' affection for Ryder was nothing more than platonic.
He shouldn't be upset. His relationship with Agnes was hard-won, fragile even.
Jared feared that endless quarrels over Ryder could shake its foundation. But he was well aware of Ryder's intentions, his refusal to back down.
What was he plotting now? Jared couldn't be sure. Ryder's words, however, lingered like thorns, deeply embedded in Jared's heart.
In the end, he drove off into the night, leaving his thoughts to dissolve in the darkness.
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