Heartstrings on Fire

Chapter 828

“Don’t say another word, but brace yourself. I’m not giving up yet, and I’ll snatch you away from your uncle’s side whenever I get the chance,” Ryder said, his voice a mix of determination and frustration. With that, he spun on his heel and strode away from the balcony.

Agnes let out a heavy sigh, the weight of the world seeming to settle on her shoulders.

Things were getting messier by the minute.

She had made herself clear to Ryder, time and time again. For years, Agnes had managed to keep him at arm’s length, but his persistence was becoming a real cause for concern.

She lingered on the balcony, nursing a glass of red wine, trying to steady her thoughts.

Then Jared appeared. He draped his jacket over Agnes‘ shoulders, his presence always so reassuring. “What’s on your mind out here?”

matter what, I won’t leave you. You believe me,

sudden declaration “Why bring this

bad

off, a small respite from the chaos. To Agnes surprise, she found an invitation from her alma mater in the mailbox. The university was celebrating its centennial, and this year, they were inviting alumni to a grand homecoming celebration

was Amelia who had organized it. Amelia, her former dormmate from freshman year, was a bit of a brainiac and now the head of the alumni events department. After a personal

touch for far too long. Since

afternoon, Agnes tried calling Kerri again and, to her astonishment, the call connected. As they talked, Agnes sensed something was

you?” Agnes demanded.

cleaning the house. Kerri shared a particular quirk with Agnes – When stress or worry gnawed at her, she’d turn to cleaning as a solace. The floors