Heartstrings on Fire (Agnes and Jared) novel 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?"

Agnes looked up, her voice soft but earnest, "Jared, no matter what, I won't leave you. You believe me, right?"

Jared paused, surprised by the sudden declaration. "Why bring this up now?"

"I've just got a bad feeling, that's all."

He wrapped his arms around her, the protector he always was. "It's all in the past. Nothing's going to break up our family, you hear?"

The next day was a day 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. The event was just three days away.