The master bedroom of the Governor’s mansion was quiet. Only the soft humming of the air conditioner could be heard. Governor Arkin Harrison lay on the king-sized bed, his back turned, his head resting on the pillow. His eyes were closed, and his breathing was steady, but he was not asleep.
Beside him, Agnes gently reached over and tried to wrap her arm around his body.
“Arkin…” she whispered.
He didn’t move.
Agnes pressed her head closer to his back. “Let’s just talk… or stay close, please…”
Arkin let out a heavy sigh. “I’m tired, Agnes,” he said in a flat voice.
She stayed still for a second, then slowly asked, “Are you tired… because of someone else?”
Arkin’s eyes opened. He turned around sharply and frowned at her.
“Don’t start with that nonsense again,” he snapped.
Agnes blin
