Jared’s day begins with a slow start and restless sleep, possibly due to the unease of being in an unfamiliar place. His plan to visit Blackwater’s City Archives hits a snag—they’re closed on Mondays. Despite the setback, he spends time on the agricultural college campus, where a surprise awaits in his inbox.

Jared receives an unexpected email from Julianna Jenkins, the great-granddaughter of Dahlia Flemming, a figure tied to his research. Julianna offers an apology for her mother’s brusqueness during previous correspondence, hinting at a strong sense of family privacy. She expresses curiosity about Jared’s work and requests more details about his interest in Dahlia, with the condition that their exchange remains confidential.