Heartstrings on Fire (Agnes and Jared) novel Chapter 830

Jared knew that Brayden had been on edge lately, like a walking thundercloud, but he couldn't pin down exactly why.

The moment Kerri's name was brought up, he'd hang up the phone.

After Jared ended the call, Agnes suggested to Kerri, “Why don’t you come over tonight? Brayden’s bringing Sprague along. It'll be a good chance for you two to hash things out.”

Kerri nodded, determination etched on her face. “I’d do anything to see Sprague. Whatever price I have to pay, even if Brayden wants to give me hell, I don’t care.”

Seeing Kerri like this, Agnes felt a pang of sadness.

They used to be so happy – a happiness that made Agnes deeply envious. Why did such beautiful love stories always seem to end up so wounded?

In the afternoon, Kerri followed Agnes home. Their houses were close by.

With Kerri's nerves stretched tight, Agnes suggested she take a nap in the guest room.

Later in the day, Agnes began preparing dinner.

Not exactly a master chef, she decided on an easy comfort food: a potluck-style dinner.

It felt fitting for a family gathering – and, to Agnes, nothing beat the communal vibe of sharing a meal around a bubbling pot.

Jared got back surprisingly early.

Seeing Agnes bustling around the kitchen, he wrapped his arms around her waist from behind and planted a kiss on her neck. “Hey, babe, what are you whipping up?”

Agnes turned to him with a smile, “Thought we’d have a potluck tonight. I've been slow-cooking some chicken broth. Here, give it a taste.”

She offered a spoonful of the broth to Jared. He took a sip, then playfully furrowed his brow.

Agnes' face fell a little. “Not good? I’ve been tending to it for two hours, thought it tasted quite nice…”