Heartstrings on Fire

Chapter 770
Judson began, “Speak your mind, Agnes. If I can help. I’ll do everything I can”
Judson had always been someone who valued talent. When he first saw Agnes‘ resume, he felt it was a waste for someone of
her caliber to be just a small reporter in the News Department
He remembered her interview well, when she had spoken about her passion for journalism, not for the money or the status,
much like he had been when he was younger
He had been impressed with Agnes from that moment.
Agnes spoke up. “I recently took part in a written test for a field reporter position but didn’t pass. I understand that I may have
been lacking in some areas However, I was hoping you could show me my test paper so I can identify my weaknesses and strive
to improve”
Judson nodded, “It’s rare to see someone as motivated as you. Most people either wallow in self–pity or resign themselves to
defeat when they fail. But not you. You’re one of the few who recognize their shortcomings and push themselves to grow”
Agnes replied, “Knowing the problem is the first step to solving it. Thank you for understanding, sir
Judson said. These papers are usually not disclosed, but since the results are already finalized, I’ll make an exception for you”
With that, he stood up and retrieved a set of keys from his desk and unlocked a nearby filing cabinet to retrieve a stack of
papers.
He told Agnes, “Find your paper and show me where you went wrong”
Agnes rummaged through the stack of papers on Judson’s desk, feigning confusion after going through the stack twice
“Mr. Judson,” she finally said, “I can’t find my test paper”
Judson frowned, “All the test papers are here. Are you sure yours isn’t among them?”
I’m certain,” Agnes insisted.
Judson himself went through the papers but couldn’t find Agnes‘ test.

That’s odd. I have been keeping these papers since they were marked. How could one be missing?”
Judson sat down and thought for a while without being disturbed by Agnes. Finally, he picked up the phone on his desk and
dialed a few numbers
In no time, four people entered his office. They were all senior reporters at the station and Judson’s proteges, and they were the
ones who had marked
the tests
Once they were all in, Judson asked, “Who marked Agnes‘ paper?”
The four exchanged glances before shaking their heads.
Mr. Judson urged, Think hard. Are you sure none of you have seen her paper?”
The oldest among them replied, “Mr. Judson, we have good memories. None of us marked a test paper by someone named
Agnes. Are you sure there hasn’t been a mix–up?”
Agnes interjected, “I can assure you that i took the test and handed in my paper on time. The conference room should have
security footage. If none of these gentlemen marked my paper, there must be some problem. Please, Mr. Judson, I ask that you
investigate. I value this open selection process Being a field reporter is my only wish since joined the company. I don’t want to
lose this opportunity due to some mishap
Judsons fist clenched as he gently tapped on the desk, “There must be some foul play at work. I pushed for this open selection
process precisely to avoid any internal appointments. I never thought someone would dare tamper with it under my watch.”