Heartstrings on Fire

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 wasnt 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.
Standing in the foyer, Agnes could almost see her past self, always leaving a light on for Jared no matter how late it was

She revisited every corner of the house. The fridge was surprisingly full of fresh fruits and vegetables
Jared had a habit of always keeping the fridge stocked, a habit he developed during their time living together because she would
often crave a late–night spack, like scrambled eggs.
Even after she left, and despite Jared’s infrequent visits to Maplewood Manor, he’d always stop by the grocery store to fill the
fridge with fresh produce
Jared took Nocturne to the children’s room. This room was reserved for a child when Jared first renovated Maplewood Manor
For such a long time, it remained unoccupied. But it was always spotless, with fresh sheets and the latest toys. Now, it finally
served its purpose.
However, Jared had one miscalculation. Nocturne wasn’t interested in typical children’s toys
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