Heartstrings on Fire (Agnes and Jared) novel Chapter 734

Jared was momentarily taken aback by Agnes' words. There was some light flickering in his eyes when looking at Agnes, but finally, his gaze turned determined. He lowered his gaze, his focus still on Nocturne.

"I'd rather not," Jared began, "I don't need a little sweetheart anymore. Having you as my only sweetheart is enough."

This response wasn't typical of Jared, leaving Agnes slightly surprised. She thought Jared would be thrilled.

Jared continued, "Agnes, I know giving birth is a tough ordeal. When I think about you alone in a foreign place, risking your life to bring a child into the world, my heart clenches. I can't bear to imagine the scene, and I don't want you to go through that again."

Agnes found herself moved by Jared's words. That night four years ago was indeed a close call. If Kearney hadn’t arrived in time to rush her to the hospital, she couldn’t imagine what might have happened. She'd always felt like she owed Kearney her life.

"Moreover," Jared went on, "Nocturne's illness... I'm determined to cure him. He's exceptionally talented, but he can't see the sunrise or the stars. It's such a shame."

Jared's words touched Agnes deeply. Nocturne's illness was a constant worry for her. She yearned for Nocturne to live like any other child, even if he wasn't a prodigy or particularly bright.

"Don't worry," Agnes reassured, "Nocturne will get better. He has to."

Finally, Agnes pulled up to Maplewood Manor.

This wasn't her first time visiting since returning home. But her previous visits had been secretive and ended in arguments with Jared when he found her there.

This house once belonged to both of them, and she had not yet had a chance to properly visit.

Maplewood Manor was unchanged, its decor identical to what it was four years ago.

Agnes came over and hugged Jared from behind when he was staring blankly at a wall.

"What are you thinking about?" Agnes asked, resting her head against his back.

Jared pointed at the wall in front of him, "I'm thinking of building a large bookshelf that reaches the ceiling here. Since Nocturne loves reading, I'll make a bookshelf for him. When he gets a bit older, I'll empty out the wine cellar and turn it into a library."

Agnes chuckled, "Mr. Whitfield, be reasonable. You'll spoil the child with your indulgence."

"Spoil him then," Jared responded, "Right now, all I want is to give him the best the world has to offer."