Heartstrings on Fire (Agnes and Jared)
Chapter 702

Agnes was a naturally beautiful woman, who usually favored a barefaced look over heavy makeup.

But today, with a touch of makeup, she was nothing short of breathtaking.

Dressed in a fiery red evening gown that hugged her perfect curves, she looked entirely different from her usual self.

Her warm attire contrasted sharply with her icy makeup, giving her an air of regal sophistication.

Every glance and blink seemed to emanate the aura of a queen.

Turning around, she asked, "Kearney, is this okay?"

She was a bit anxious, afraid that she wouldn't fit into this role and would end up dragging Kearney down.

Chuckling, Kearney reassured her, "Septima, you look stunning. This dress was initially intended for Phenix, who adores red, but I must say it suits you equally well."

Feeling slightly embarrassed, Agnes responded, "How can I compare to Phenix? She's a heartbreaker, with countless men falling over themselves just for a glimpse of her."

Mentioning Phenix caused a slight change in Kearney's expression.

He reached for a large, ornate box on the table, revealing a set of diamond jewelry.

The necklace featured a large ruby that shone brilliantly, along with a bracelet and earrings adorned with matching rubies.

Kearney took out the necklace and said, "I got this set from a gem market in South Africa as a wedding gift for Phenix. She was supposed to accompany me to the banquet tonight, and I had planned to give it to her then, but alas..."

Interrupting him, Agnes quickly said, "This gift is meant for Phenix. I shouldn't wear it."

Kearney laughed, "It's fine, and I'm sure Phenix wouldn't mind either. When you return home, please give this set to her."

Agnes asked, "Why don't you give it to her yourself, Kearney?"

He replied with a smile, "Because it would break my heart."

His feelings for Phenix were well known, even though this was the first time he had expressed them in front of Agnes.

Everyone was aware that Phenix was set to marry Sean in Bali three months later, and when the announcement was made, Kearney had promptly excused himself from the ceremony.

The room fell silent as everyone understood Kearney's feelings.

Only Sean, who was drunk, insisted that Kearney must attend.

Hearing his words, Agnes felt a pang of sympathy.

How could one attend the wedding of the person they loved?

It was perhaps one of the cruelest things in the world.

Looking at the jewelry around her neck, she assured Kearney, "I will definitely give this set to Phenix, Kearney."

After helping Agnes put on the jewelry, Kearney looked at her through his glasses and said, "You look stunning, Septima. You're sure to steal the show tonight."

Agnes laughed, "I'll certainly do my best."

Stepping forward, Kearney affectionately pinched her cheek, "You're not a mother of a four-year-old. You're a seductress."

At six o'clock in the evening, Agnes and Kearney left for the banquet.

The venue was the Solar Palace, a real-life castle perched atop a modest hill.

Below the hill lay the vast Vineyard Vista Estate.

The castle's cellar was said to be France's most luxurious wine cellar.

Although not the largest, it boasted an impressive collection of world-renowned wines.